St. Francis encourages patients, staff to say ‘thanks’ to physicians

INDIANAPOLIS – After completing their studies and clinical rotations as medical students, newly minted physicians begin to put in practice that time-honored oath to serve their patients with the utmost care and compassion and extend professionalism to those who work by their sides.

That is why St. Francis Hospital & Health Centers is honoring its physicians in observance of National Doctor’s Day on March 30.

“We are blessed to have such dedicated physicians who give tirelessly of themselves,” said Robert J. Brody, St. Francis president and chief operating officer. “So many lives have been touched by St. Francis doctors, who apply their knowledge and follow Franciscan values to serve their patients better.”

Brody and other hospital leaders are encouraging their staff and patients to send notes or cards to their physicians, or to thank them face-to-face.

More than 750 physicians participate on the medical staffs at St. Francis hospitals in Indianapolis, Beech Grove and Mooresville and at the Plainfield Medical Center. Nearly 100 are members of St. Francis Medical Group.

Many St. Francis physicians volunteer their expertise and time outside their normal duties, participating in medical missions at home and abroad, serving on boards and performing a wide range of service in their communities.

The first Doctor’s Day was said to have originated in Winder, Ga., on March 30, 1933. It included the mailing of greeting cards to physicians and placing flowers on the graves of their deceased colleagues.

St. Francis has observed National Doctor’s Day since it was formally recognized by presidential proclamation in 1990.