In various fields of humanity, Black men and women have continued to distinguish themselves and make significant contributions wherever they are found. One such field is Universal Healthcare where many Black medical professionals have contributed immensely in ensuring access to quality healthcare services for many.

With the many advancements in medicine over the years, Black medical professionals have continued to break the glass ceiling by pioneering new healthcare administration and delivery methods ensuring that their works continue to revolutionize the way medical practices are applied for future generations. Let us take a look at some of the Black Medical professionals and their impact in the medical field.

Dr. Kizzmekia Shanta Corbett

An Immunologist by training, Dr Kizzmekia S. Corbett along with members of her team discovered the “spike protein” during the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Their discovery was critical in the development of the vaccine of which Dr Corbett was made team lead of the scientists that created the genetic code sequence of the vaccine that helped the body’s immune system recognize and fight the virus.

 
Dr Ben Carson

The famous neurosurgeon came into the spotlight when he operated to separate those who were conjoined at the back of the health. This successful operation was the first of its kind in the history of medical practice involving a surgical team of 70 members and lasted over 22 hours.

Dr Ben Carson would then go on to perform a similar feat when, along with South African and Zambian Doctors he performed surgery to separate twins who were joined at the top of their heads. The medical methods used to perform these surgeries are innovative and have helped improve medical practices.

Dr Ben Carson also developed a medical procedure called hemispherectomy where patients with extreme seizure cases would have one-half of their brain removed as a remedy to cure the illness.

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Dr Griffin Rodgers

Physician and Scientist, Dr. Griffin was instrumental in the development of Hydroxyurea (a medication approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration) for the treatment of sickle-cell disease (SCD). This discovery has been instrumental in improving the outcomes of those living with SCD.

As Director of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), the institute under his leadership has continued to remain in the frontline of the fight against many of the diseases affecting public health.

Dr Patricia Bath

The renowned Ophthalmologist and inventor is the first African-American female medical practitioner to hold the patent right for the Laserphaco Probe, an invention that utilizes the use of lasers to remove cataracts. This device which has been improved over the years has successfully been used to improve the lives of people who have been struggling with their sights for decades. Dr Patricia Bath currently holds five medical patents.

Black medical practitioners have continued to play a crucial role in the advancement of healthcare. As we celebrate their expertise, and commitment to professionalism in the medical field, we recognize and appreciate their contributions in improving the healthcare outcomes and access to care for all individuals.

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 Okechukwu Nzeribe works with the Onitsha Chamber of Commerce, in Anambra State, Nigeria, and loves unveiling the richness of African cultures. [email protected]

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