Douglas Robb (surgeon)

Douglas Robb (1905–1974) was a prominent New Zealand surgeon and medical administrator. He is best known for his work as the superintendent of Auckland Hospital from 1947 to 1971.

Early life and education[edit | edit source]

Douglas Robb was born in 1905 in Auckland, New Zealand. He attended Auckland Grammar School before studying medicine at the University of Otago. After graduating in 1928, he travelled to London, England, where he worked at the London Hospital and obtained his FRCS in 1931.

Career[edit | edit source]

Upon returning to New Zealand, Robb worked as a general surgeon at Auckland Hospital. During World War II, he served as a surgeon in the New Zealand Expeditionary Force, rising to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.

In 1947, Robb was appointed superintendent of Auckland Hospital, a position he held until his retirement in 1971. During his tenure, he oversaw significant changes in the hospital's administration and medical practices, including the introduction of antibiotics and the development of specialist services.

Robb was also involved in medical education, serving as a lecturer at the University of Auckland's School of Medicine. He was instrumental in the establishment of the New Zealand Medical Association and served as its president from 1962 to 1963.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

Robb's contributions to medicine and medical administration in New Zealand have been widely recognised. The Douglas Robb Memorial Lectures, held annually at the University of Auckland, are named in his honour.