Josephine Barnes

Photograph portrait of Josephine Barnes. Wellcome L0004409

Josephine Barnes (1912–1999) was a pioneering British physician and one of the first female surgeons in the United Kingdom. Her career spanned several decades, during which she broke numerous gender barriers in the medical profession and advocated for women's health issues.

Early Life and Education

Josephine Barnes was born in 1912 in Norfolk, England. From a young age, she showed a keen interest in pursuing a career in medicine, a field that was, at the time, dominated by men. Barnes attended the Royal Free Hospital's School of Medicine for Women, one of the few medical schools that accepted female students. She graduated with honors, demonstrating early on her dedication and skill in the field of medicine.

Career

After completing her medical degree, Barnes faced significant challenges in finding surgical training positions, which were rarely offered to women. Despite these obstacles, she persevered and eventually became one of the first female surgical registrars at the Royal Free Hospital. Her work and research contributed significantly to the fields of obstetrics and gynaecology, and she played a crucial role in improving healthcare for women.

Barnes was appointed as a consultant at the Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Hospital, where she worked for many years, providing medical care to women and advocating for their health rights. She also served as a consultant at the Charing Cross Hospital, further establishing her reputation as a leading surgeon.

In 1973, Josephine Barnes achieved another milestone by becoming the first female president of the British Medical Association, a testament to her leadership skills and her colleagues' respect for her.

Legacy

Josephine Barnes' contributions to medicine and her role in breaking down gender barriers in the medical profession have left a lasting legacy. She was a trailblazer for women in surgery and healthcare, inspiring future generations of female doctors and surgeons. Barnes was honored with several awards and recognitions throughout her career, including being made a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) for her services to medicine.

Death

Dame Josephine Barnes passed away in 1999, but her pioneering spirit and achievements continue to be celebrated in the medical community and beyond.