Estephan Zayat: Doctors’ Day recognizes work of physicians

Since 1933, March 30 – National Doctors’ Day – has been the day set aside each year to show appreciation for the responsibilities America’s physicians undertake to care for the sick and injured and to advance the art and science of medicine.

Physicians first arrived in Wichita in 1867 when the city was a bustling cattle town. With limited resources, these pioneer doctors treated the sick and injured, performed surgeries, stopped epidemics and initiated public health campaigns.

Early physicians owned businesses, served on civic boards, and held public office, including E.B. Allen as Wichita’s first mayor. In the 1880s, surgeons began arriving when the community’s first hospitals were built.

In 1903, the city’s 25 physicians founded the Medical Society of Sedgwick County. In the beginning, they met weekly to exchange new medical knowledge and share information about the illnesses and injuries they were treating. Today the society represents 1,220 physicians who promote the highest standards in ethical medical practice, medical education, scientific research and community health.

The society’s doctors view their role as a sacred calling. After completing years of medical training – from seven to 12 years beyond an undergraduate degree — we believe the practice of medicine is a privilege. There is a very special joy in healing, in serving, in caring.

Please join me in recognizing the physicians of Wichita-Sedgwick County who every day dedicate their lives to the health and well-being of their patients. Reflect on how your doctor has helped you and your loved ones over the years, and then take the time to appreciate the best health care advocate you have – your physician.

This story was originally published March 29, 2016 at 7:01 PM with the headline "Estephan Zayat: Doctors’ Day recognizes work of physicians."