National Physicians Week: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about National Physicians Week (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. National Physicians Week is observed on March 25th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of National Physicians Week, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as important facts you should know about National Physicians Week.

📅 What day is National Physicians Week 2024?

In 2024, National Physicians Week is on Saturday, March 25th. It is the 4th Saturday in March; in 2024, it is Monday. There are until the next observance. You also can learn all intriguing details and facts about March 25, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

During National Physicians Week, which takes place from March 25 to 31, we have the opportunity to express our love and appreciation for doctors through special gifts, heartfelt messages, and online gratitude posts. Despite the extensive training, long hours, and difficult decisions they face, doctors consistently provide attentive and compassionate care for their patients. Their dedication and expertise greatly contribute to improving the health and well-being of individuals, always striving to apply the latest medical knowledge. As a symbol of gratitude towards physicians, consider giving them a red carnation during this week to show your appreciation.

📜 National Physicians Week History

Medical ethics can be traced back to ancient Greece, specifically around 500 B.C. During this time, Hippocrates wrote the famous Hippocratic oath which emphasized the importance of doctors doing no harm. As medical knowledge progressed, medical schools and hospitals were established throughout Europe, with some of the earliest ones being in Paris, Salerno, and Oxford. The teachings of Hippocrates and other Greek physicians were incorporated into these schools. Interestingly, the term “physician” was not commonly used until around 1400.

The medical profession experienced significant growth in the late 1700s and early 1800s, marked by the formation of the first medical society in 1766. In 1847, the American Medical Association was established, and in 1849, Elizabeth Blackwell became the first female medical student to graduate from Geneva Medical College in New York. Throughout the 1900s, doctors achieved remarkable milestones such as creating the first blood bank in 1937, performing the first heart transplant in 1967, and implanting the first artificial heart in a patient in 1982.

In more recent years, the National Physicians Week campaign was launched in 2016 by Physicians Working Together (PWT), an advocacy organization aiming to honor and recognize physicians globally. This initiative began on social media and has helped physicians connect with one another and their patients, providing a platform for stress relief and professional interaction, as described by its creator, Dr. Kim Jackson.

✅ National Physicians Week Facts

🔖 Med school is more female
In the present day, over half of the individuals graduating from medical school are women, which marks a significant rise of 30% compared to three decades ago.

🔖 Physicians never stop working hard
Even after completing medical school, doctors continue to work tirelessly. More than 50% of physicians report working overtime, putting in up to 60 hours per week.

🔖 There are a lot of doctors!
The United States Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that there are approximately 700,000 doctors practicing in the United States.

👍 Why Is National Physicians Week Important

Almost all of us will seek the advice and care of a physician at some point in our lives. When we see these experienced specialists, they help us get through diseases and improve our quality of life.

A physician’s career is a dream job for many people. Physicians are inspirational to many individuals because they save lives courageously, undertake studies that could potentially change the path of medical treatment, and earn a high wage.

Aside from being extremely educated and gifted, physicians work hard! They not only go through the arduous years of college, medical school, and residency, but they also work long shifts and have emotionally taxing responsibilities. Despite this, they are able to provide patients with understanding and kindness.

🙂 How To Observe National Physicians Week

⚡ Post your thanks with #NationalPhysiciansWeek
Expressing gratitude and giving public recognition is always a positive gesture. It can be a great idea to show appreciation for physicians and their incredible work by posting your thanks on social media. Not only does this acknowledge their efforts, but it can also inspire others on your feed to do the same.

⚡ Bring a doc some goodies
Doctors work tirelessly and face overwhelming demands in their careers. Whether it’s a simple cup of coffee, homemade cookies, or a complete meal, any gesture of appreciation is always welcomed by these hardworking individuals. Such treats serve as a reminder that someone cares about their well-being and can provide a much-needed boost to keep them going throughout their long and exhausting shifts.

⚡ Send a thank you
Now is a wonderful opportunity to express your appreciation to your compassionate doctors, especially if you or someone dear to you is receiving medical care. Sending a simple card can serve as a meaningful reminder of your gratitude and may contribute to receiving ongoing exceptional treatment.

📅 When is National Physicians Week?

View all 🔗 March holidays, including 🔗 Health and other 🔗 American holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and cool facts about National Physicians Week. So be sure to check back soon.