Historical People In Medicine

Hippocrates Named the “Father of Medicine”. Authored the CODE OF CONDUCT for doctors (aka Hippocratic Oath)- this oath is the basis for all medical practice today. His beliefs led medicine away from ancients beliefs (evil spirits) and began studying diseases in a more accurate fashion. Believed disease and illness had a rational and physical explanation. Stressed Observation, Diagnosis, and Treatment. Believed a good diet, exercise, cleanliness,and fresh air were important to healthy living.

Florence Nightingale Founder of Modern Nursing Fought for the reform of military hospitals and for improved medical care. Encouraged efficiency and cleanliness in hospitals. These efforts decreased the death rate of patients by two-thirds. Started the Nightingale Training School for Nurses in London.

Louis Pasteur

France born chemist and biologist. Called the “Father of Microbiology”. Known for his work with Microorganisms (Germs) that cause diseases. Discovered the germ theory, pasteurization, vaccination, and fermentation. Founded basic rules for Sterilization. His discoveries reformed surgery and obstetrics. Accomplishments are the foundation for bacteriololgy, immunology, microbiology, molecular biology, and virology in todays health care. He is responsible for saving millions of lives through his discoveries.

Clara Barton Founder of The American Red Cross (1881) She volunteered during the American Civil War, providing aid to wounded soldiers. She gathered supplies for both the North and the South. Personally delivering them to the wounded soldiers families. During her service she traveled all over the United States and the world to assist victims of natural disasters and war.

20th Century Discoveries Freud studies formed the basis for psychology and psychiatry (1939). Health Insurance Plans began (1920). PCN was discovered in1928. Kidney Dialysis Machine created (1944) Birth Control pills were released (1960) First test tube baby was born (1978). AIDS was identified (1981) A sheep was cloned (1997)