7 Black Medical Professionals Who Changed Medicine

By Cheyenne Tyler Jacobs

lack people have always been a pivotal point in the history of medicine. As we continue to make strides in modern day medicine it is important to know those who paved the way. It is also important to be aware of the recurring need to diversify and dismantle the health disparities in marginalized communities. Below is a brief list of 4 Black medical professionals who changed medicine.

Charles R. Drew (1904-1950)

Did multiple studies and research on Blood Plasma and through his studies and clinical trials found blood can be categorized into 4 types. (A, B, AB, O).

Marilyn Hughes Gaston, MD (b. 1939)

Became deputy branch chief of the Sickle Cell Disease Branch at the National Institutes of Health. Groundbreaking 1986 study led to a national sickle cell disease screening program for newborns.

Ernest E. Just, PhD (1883-1941)

Biologist and embryologist. Received the NAACP Spingarn Medal for his ground-breaking research on the egg fertilization process and cell division.

Leonidas Harris Berry, MD (1902 — 1995)

Renowned gastroenterologist. First black doctor on staff at the Michael Reese Hospital in Chicago, Illinois, in 1946. Mentioned civil rights work with diversifying hospitals and creating community organizations for funding and black practitioners.

Take time during your week to learn about those in our history that opened the doors for so many of us. Tag us on Instagram @huedco with one pioneer of health that is inspiring and paved the way.