Border Healers: 5 RENOWNED Physicians from Texas
In case you didn't know, Texas has produced SEVERAL well known doctors in the recent "history of medicine."
Every year, on March 30th it's proclaimed National Doctors Day, a day to celebrate the fine physicians who save lives daily.
But, I don't think we need a day to remind us that great doctors are EVERYWHERE, especially in the Lone Star State.
So, I've decided to highlight these 5 famous physicians from Texas who have made significant contributions to their field of medicine.
1. Dr. Hector P. Garcia (b. 1914 - d. 1996)
A civil rights activist and physician, he founded the American GI Forum, an organization that advocated for better healthcare and civil rights for Hispanic veterans.
He was a member of the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights and received honor and recognition for his work, including the freaking Presidential Medal of Freedom.
2. Dr. Michael E. DeBakey
A distinguished American heart surgeon, educator, and inventor, he revolutionized surgical methods like coronary artery bypass and Dacron graft development, while working at the Texas medical Center in Houston.
He played a role in creating artificial hearts and ventricular assist devices.
As a mentor, he significantly influenced contemporary cardiovascular medicine and received multiple accolades throughout his career.
3. Dr. Lawrence Harkless
A native Texan and podiatrist, he is an expert specifically in the treatment of diabetic foot problems, which is a huge issue for so many El Pasoans.
He has published several articles on the subject and has received recognition, including the prestigious American Podiatric Medical Association's Outstanding Educator Award.
He's even been described as "the father of diabetic footcare."
4. Dr. Diana L. Fite
Originally from Amarillo, she's an emergency medicine physician and has held several leadership positions in the field.
She has been recognized for her contributions to emergency medicine by well known organizations like the American College of Emergency Physicians.
She was the president of the Texas Medical Association from 2000 - 2001.
5. Dr. James H. "Red" Duke Jr (b. 1928 - d. 2015)
A distinguished Texas doctor, trauma surgeon, and educator, was instrumental in launching Life Flight, an air ambulance service, in Houston.
His contributions greatly impacted the evolution of contemporary trauma care.
Known for his medical prowess, Dr. Duke also gained recognition through TV appearances, where he disseminated health advice and information to audiences.
These live savers and Texas heroes have made so many significant contributions to the their areas of medicine, and beyond.
Their incredible expertise, leadership, and dedication have earned them an immense amount of respect both locally and nationally.
More importantly, they've helped improve the healthcare outcomes for their patients and communities, and their efforts have aided the advance of "medicine" for everyone.
Let me know what you think about these Texas doctors and if I missed any at nico@klaq.com
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