History of National Doctors' Day in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 30, 2026

National Doctors' Day is a day dedicated to acknowledging the invaluable contributions of physicians to individuals and communities. Celebrated on different dates across nations, often marked as a holiday, it is primarily observed by healthcare organizations. While intended for patients to express gratitude, celebrations typically involve healthcare staff organizing recognition events, such as luncheons, where doctors receive tokens of appreciation. Traditionally, tokens of recognition included sending cards and red carnations to physicians and their spouses, as well as honoring deceased physicians with flowers placed on their graves.

March 28, 1933: First Doctors’ Day Observance

On March 28, 1933, the first Doctors’ Day was observed in Winder, Georgia, with activities including mailing cards to physicians and their wives, placing flowers on deceased doctors' graves (including Dr. Long's), and a formal dinner at the home of Dr. and Mrs. William T. Randolph.

May 10, 1934: Resolution Adoption by Georgia State Medical Alliance

On May 10, 1934, the Georgia State Medical Alliance adopted a resolution to pay tribute to doctors at its annual state meeting in Augusta, Georgia. This resolution was initially proposed by Mrs. Almond and presented by Mrs. E. R. Harris of Winder.

1935: Introduction to the Women's Alliance of the Southern Medical Association

In 1935, the resolution to recognize Doctors' Day was introduced to the Women's Alliance of the Southern Medical Association at its 29th annual meeting in St. Louis, Missouri, from November 19–22, by Mrs. J. Bonar White, the Alliance president.

October 30, 1990: Doctors' Day Designated as a National Holiday

On October 30, 1990, President Bush signed S.J. RES. #366 (Public Law 101-473), passed by the United States Senate and House of Representatives during the 101st United States Congress, officially designating Doctors' Day as a national holiday to be celebrated on March 30.

March 2017: Physicians Day changed to Physicians Week

In March 2017, Dr. Marion Mass, along with Dr. Kimberly Jackson and Dr. Christina Lang, successfully applied to officially change Physicians Day to Physicians Week.

2017: Physicians Working Together sponsors articles on KevinMD

In 2017, Physicians Working Together (PWT), founded by Dr. Kimberly Jackson, sponsored a series of articles celebrating National Physicians Week, hosted on KevinMD.

2018: PWT and Openxmed sponsor online conference

In 2018, Physicians Working Together (PWT), along with Openxmed, sponsored a free online conference focusing on physician well-being and advocacy.

2019: PWT and Openxmed sponsor scholarship program

In 2019, PWT and Openxmed sponsored a scholarship program for medical students and residents as part of the week-long event that focuses on advocacy and supporting the physician community.