National Women Physicians Day

Celebrated on 02/03/2026

Quick Fact

National Women Physicians Day is celebrated on February 3, the birthday of Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell, the first woman to receive a medical degree in the United States in 1849. Today, women make up over 50% of medical school graduates, yet they still face gender disparities in leadership roles and pay.

Origins and Establishment of National Women Physicians Day

National Women Physicians Day was established in 2018 by the American Medical Association (AMA) and other medical organizations to honor the contributions of women physicians and to advocate for gender equity in medicine. The date, February 3, was chosen to coincide with the birthday of Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell, who broke barriers by becoming the first woman to earn a medical degree in the U.S. in 1849. The holiday aims to recognize the achievements of women in medicine and highlight the ongoing challenges they face.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Since its inception, National Women Physicians Day has grown in visibility through social media campaigns, medical conferences, and institutional events. Hospitals and medical schools often host panel discussions, mentorship programs, and awards to celebrate women physicians. The day also serves as a platform to address issues such as the gender pay gap, underrepresentation in specialties, and work-life balance. In recent years, the holiday has expanded to include virtual events and global participation, fostering a sense of community among women in medicine worldwide.

Facts & General Observations

• As of 2023, women represent approximately 37% of active physicians in the U.S., up from 28% in 2007.
• Female physicians earn on average 25% less than their male counterparts, even after controlling for specialty and hours worked.
• Over 80% of medical students in the U.S. are women, yet only 18% of department chairs and 16% of medical school deans are women.

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