National Doctors' Day
Always observed on March 30
| The date for National Doctors’ Day is the anniversary of the first use of general anesthetic in surgery. |
| Both patients and those who work for or with physicians may recognize, thank or show appreciation by giving cards, notes or commemorative tokens of remembrance. |
| Because of the popularity of Hallmark’s cards for National Nurses Day (May 6), and due to consumer demand, Hallmark created its first cards for National Doctors’ Day in 2003. |
2008 Product Features
- Hallmark offers one Doctors’ Day card that expresses recognition and appreciation for a doctor’s commitment and compassion. A colophon on the back of the card pays tribute to doctors’ dedication.
- Thank-you and blank cards that offer the opportunity to write personal notes also are appropriate.
Holiday History
The first Doctors’ Day observance was March 30, 1933, in Winder, Ga. The idea came from Eudora Brown Almond, wife of Dr. Cha Almond, and the date was the anniversary of the first use of general anesthetic in surgery. (On March 30, 1842, Dr. Crawford Long of Barrow County, Ga., used ether to remove a tumor from a patient’s neck.)
The Barrow County Medical Society Auxiliary proclaimed the day “Doctors’ Day,” which was celebrated by mailing cards to physicians and their wives, and placing flowers on the graves of deceased doctors, including Dr. Long.
The United States House of Representatives adopted a resolution commemorating Doctors’ Day on March 30, 1958. In 1990, legislation was introduced into the United States House of Representatives and United States Senate to establish a National Doctors’ Day. Following overwhelming approval by the House and Senate, then-President George H.W. Bush signed a resolution designating March 30 as National Doctors’ Day. The first National Doctors’ Day was celebrated in 1991.
In Stores
Available at Hallmark Gold Crown® stores nationwide. Use the store locator on Hallmark.com to find the nearest Hallmark Gold Crown store.