Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, part of Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland, has a storied history that dates back to the late 19th century. Established in 1893, the school was a pioneering force in medical education and research. This article delves into the historical context and key figures involved in the founding of this prestigious institution.
The Vision of Johns Hopkins
Before his death in 1873, Johns Hopkins, a Baltimore financier and philanthropist, envisioned
a university and hospital that would be interconnected through a medical school. This was a revolutionary idea at the time, as medical education was not typically linked with hospitals. Hopkins appointed a 12-member board of trustees to bring his vision to life. Construction of the Johns Hopkins Hospital began in 1877, but it took twelve years to complete. By the time the hospital opened in 1889, only six of the original trustees were still alive, and the funds to establish the medical school were insufficient.
The financial shortfall was addressed by the daughters of four original trustees, led by Mary Elizabeth Garrett. They launched a nationwide fundraising campaign with the stipulation that the medical school would admit both men and women, a progressive condition given the exclusion of women from medical education in the 1890s. Their efforts were successful, and the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine officially opened its doors in 1893, with three women in its first class.
Pioneering Medical Education
The founding physicians of the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine were instrumental in shaping modern medical education. William Henry Welch, the first dean, was a pathologist who played a crucial role in the school's development. Canadian internist William Osler, author of "The Principles and Practice of Medicine," was another key figure. Osler's work laid the foundation for modern medical practice and education.
Surgeon William Stewart Halsted revolutionized surgery by emphasizing skill, technique, and aseptic procedures. His contributions to surgical education and practice were groundbreaking. Howard Atwood Kelly, a gynecological surgeon, established gynecology as a specialty and was among the first to use radium in cancer treatment. These founding physicians set high standards for medical education and research, making Johns Hopkins a model for other institutions.
The Legacy of Johns Hopkins School of Medicine
The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine quickly gained a reputation as a major center for biomedical research. Its affiliation with the Johns Hopkins Hospital, the primary teaching hospital, further strengthened its position. The school is consistently ranked among the top medical schools in the United States, a testament to its enduring legacy.
The school's impact extends beyond its own walls. It has influenced medical education nationwide, serving as a model for other institutions. The Flexner Report, which reformed medical education in the early 20th century, was heavily influenced by the standards set by Johns Hopkins. Today, the school continues to be a leader in medical research and education, upholding the vision of its founders.
