Hidden Healers: A Celebration of Historical Black Figures in Medicine
Vivien Thomas, one of the most remarkable historical Black figures in medicine, changed the course of cardiac surgery forever. Despite facing racial barriers that denied him formal medical credentials, Thomas’s groundbreaking work made modern heart surgery possible. His contributions, though often overlooked, saved countless lives and reshaped the field of cardiovascular medicine.
In the laboratory, Thomas designed and perfected the procedure to treat tetralogy of Fallot, commonly known as “blue baby syndrome.” This condition, which was once almost always fatal in infants, became treatable thanks to his innovations. Moreover, Thomas’s precision in experiments, his creation of surgical tools, and his ability to train physicians laid the foundation for pediatric cardiac surgery. Thousands of children survived because of the techniques he developed.
However, for many years, his work was credited to others. This injustice highlights how structural racism often obscures the contributions of Black innovators. Today, Thomas’s legacy is celebrated not only for his technical achievements but also for exposing the systemic barriers that have long existed in medicine.
References
Thomas, V. (1985). Partners of the heart. University of Pennsylvania Press.
Blalock, A., & Taussig, H. B. (1945). Journal of the American Medical Association, 128(3), 189–195.
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DISC Health
The Health Equity Action Lab (HEAL) is an initiative by Dynasty Interactive Screen Community aimed at addressing health disparities in the U.S. and globally. By engaging media and stakeholders, HEAL seeks to reduce health inequalities and raise awareness. Their approach includes overcoming socio historical barriers and confronting the institutional, social, and political factors that perpetuate healthcare inequality.
Howard University Hospital (HUH)
Howard University Hospital, established in 1862 as Freedmen’s Hospital, has a rich history of serving African Americans and training top medical professionals. Located in Washington, D.C., it is the only teaching hospital on the campus of a historically Black university. HUH is a Level 1 Trauma Center and a critical healthcare provider for underserved populations. It offers advanced medical services, including robotic surgery, and has received numerous accolades for excellence in specialties like heart care, stroke treatment, and radiology.
Learn more about Howard University Hospital (HUH)
Howard University Faculty Practice Plan (FPP)
The Howard University Faculty Practice Plan is a multi-specialty physician group in Washington, D.C., dedicated to advancing healthcare and eliminating health disparities. It offers comprehensive services, including primary and specialty care, mental health, imaging, and cancer care, all connected to Howard University Hospital. FPP emphasizes patient-centered, respectful care for the diverse community and provides free health screenings and events to promote wellness.
Learn more about Howard University Faculty Practice Plan (FPP).
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