Ella Campbell Scarlett

American physician and educator

Ella Campbell Scarlett (1864–1961) was a pioneering American physician and educator, known for her contributions to medicine and her role in advancing women's education in the medical field. She was one of the first women to practice medicine in the United States and played a significant role in the development of medical education for women.

Early life and education

Ella Campbell Scarlett was born in 1864 in Columbus, Ohio. She was the daughter of a prominent local family, which valued education and encouraged her academic pursuits. Scarlett attended the Ohio State University, where she excelled in her studies and developed a keen interest in the sciences.

After completing her undergraduate education, Scarlett pursued a medical degree at the University of Michigan, one of the few institutions at the time that admitted women to its medical program. She graduated in 1890, becoming one of the first women to earn a medical degree from the university.

Medical career

Ella Campbell Scarlett in 1916

Following her graduation, Scarlett began her medical practice in Ann Arbor, Michigan. She quickly gained a reputation for her dedication to patient care and her innovative approaches to treatment. Her practice focused on internal medicine, and she was particularly interested in the treatment of infectious diseases.

In addition to her practice, Scarlett was actively involved in medical research. She published several papers on the treatment of tuberculosis and other infectious diseases, contributing to the growing body of medical knowledge at the time.

Contributions to medical education

Scarlett was a strong advocate for women's education in medicine. She believed that women had a unique perspective to offer in the field and worked tirelessly to open doors for future generations of female physicians. She was instrumental in the establishment of several programs aimed at supporting women in medicine, including scholarships and mentorship opportunities.

Scarlett also served as a professor at the University of Michigan, where she taught courses in internal medicine and infectious diseases. Her teaching style was noted for its rigor and her ability to inspire students to pursue excellence in their medical careers.

Legacy

Ella Campbell Scarlett's contributions to medicine and medical education have had a lasting impact. She is remembered as a trailblazer who broke down barriers for women in medicine and as a dedicated physician who improved the lives of her patients. Her work paved the way for future generations of women in the medical field.

Related pages

• Women in medicine
• History of medicine
• University of Michigan Medical School