March 30 is National Doctor’s Day, and although family doctors are appreciated every day, this special occasion has been set aside to honor all of the contributions they’ve made to the well-being of their communities. What you might not know, though, is that the day also commemorates a special achievement in medicine. 

The History of National Doctor’s Day

The roots of National Doctor’s Day began in the 1930s when a doctor’s wife in Georgia proposed designating a day to thank doctors for their work. The date of March 30 was selected in honor of Dr. Crawford Long, who performed the first surgery with anesthesia on March 30, 1842. 

The first National Doctor’s Day in 1933 included a luncheon in the Atlanta, GA, area and cards and flowers for doctors. Although a resolution for “Commemorating Doctors’ Day” was made in the House of Representatives in 1958, it wasn’t until 1990 that the federal government made the official designation of March 30 as National Doctor’s Day.

How You Can Celebrate National Doctor’s Day

Today, observances include sending greeting cards to family doctors, special celebrations for physicians and their families, and giving gifts. Red carnations are traditionally given to doctors and their spouses on this day, and flowers are placed on the graves of deceased doctors. 

If you have a family doctor or specialist who has made a difference in your life, schedule a checkup while you stop by to say thank you. Doctors work every day to preserve the health of others, so honor that commitment by taking care of yourself. 

If you need to schedule your annual checkup, turn to the compassionate and skilled team of family doctors at Fairbanks Clinic, Inc. Since 1932, they’ve provided comprehensive health care services to the people of Alaska. They also specialize in women’s health and pediatrics. Call (907) 452-1761 to make an appointment, or visit the clinic's website to learn more about their services. For more health tips, follow the practice’s Facebook page.