Michael Hoke

Michael Hoke

Name	Michael Hoke
Birth name
Birth date	1874
Birth place	Atlanta, Georgia, USA
Death date	1944
Death place	Atlanta, Georgia, USA
Alma mater
Occupation	Orthopedic Surgeon
Years active
Organization
Known for	Founding the Scottish Rite Hospital for Crippled Children
Notable works
Spouse(s)
Website

Michael Hoke (1874–1944) was a pioneering American orthopedic surgeon known for his significant contributions to the field of orthopedic surgery and for founding the Scottish Rite Hospital for Crippled Children in Atlanta, Georgia. His work laid the foundation for modern pediatric orthopedics and greatly improved the treatment and care of children with musculoskeletal disorders.

Early Life and Education

Michael Hoke was born in 1874 in Atlanta, Georgia. He pursued his medical education at the University of Georgia and later attended the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, where he trained under prominent figures in the medical field. His interest in orthopedic surgery was sparked during his residency, where he observed the profound impact that surgical interventions could have on patients with physical disabilities.

Career and Contributions

Hoke began his medical career in Atlanta, where he quickly became known for his expertise in treating children with orthopedic conditions. In 1915, he founded the Scottish Rite Hospital for Crippled Children, which was one of the first institutions in the United States dedicated to the care of children with musculoskeletal disorders. The hospital provided free care to children, regardless of their financial status, and became a model for similar institutions across the country.

Hoke was a pioneer in the development of new surgical techniques and rehabilitation methods for children with conditions such as clubfoot, cerebral palsy, and spina bifida. He emphasized the importance of early intervention and comprehensive care, including physical therapy and social support, to improve outcomes for his patients.

Legacy

Michael Hoke's legacy is evident in the continued operation of the Scottish Rite Hospital, now part of the Children's Healthcare of Atlanta system. His work has inspired generations of orthopedic surgeons and has had a lasting impact on the field of pediatric orthopedics. Hoke's commitment to providing compassionate care to children with disabilities set a standard for medical practice that continues to influence healthcare providers today.

Also see

• Orthopedic surgery
• Pediatric orthopedics
• Scottish Rite Hospital for Children
• History of medicine