Fitzhugh Mullan

American physician, writer, and health policy expert

Fitzhugh Mullan (July 22, 1942 – November 29, 2019) was an American physician, writer, educator, and health policy expert. He was known for his work in public health, health equity, and medical education. Mullan's career spanned clinical practice, government service, and academia, where he made significant contributions to the understanding of health disparities and the development of the healthcare workforce.

Early Life and Education

Fitzhugh Mullan was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He attended Harvard College, where he earned his undergraduate degree. Mullan then pursued a medical degree at the University of Chicago, graduating in 1968. His early experiences in medicine were shaped by the social and political upheavals of the 1960s, which influenced his commitment to social justice and health equity.

Career

Medical Practice

After completing his medical training, Mullan served as a general practitioner in rural communities, where he witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by underserved populations. His experiences in these settings fueled his passion for addressing health disparities and improving access to care.

Government Service

Mullan held several key positions in the United States Public Health Service, where he worked on health policy and workforce issues. He was instrumental in the development of the National Health Service Corps, a program designed to place healthcare professionals in underserved areas.

Academic Contributions

Fitzhugh Mullan testifying

Mullan joined the faculty at George Washington University, where he served as a professor of health policy and pediatrics. He was a founding member of the Beyond Flexner Alliance, an organization dedicated to advancing social mission in medical education. Mullan's academic work focused on the intersection of health policy, medical education, and social justice.

Writing and Advocacy

In addition to his academic and clinical work, Mullan was a prolific writer. He authored several books and numerous articles on health policy and medical education. His writings often highlighted the importance of addressing social determinants of health and the need for a diverse healthcare workforce.

Legacy

Fitzhugh Mullan's contributions to medicine and public health have had a lasting impact on the field. His work in promoting health equity and workforce diversity continues to influence policy and education. Mullan's legacy is reflected in the many programs and initiatives that aim to improve healthcare access and quality for all populations.

Related Pages

• Public health
• Health equity
• Medical education
• Social determinants of health