Violet Plummer

Australian medical doctor and educator

Violet Plummer (1873–1962) was an Australian medical doctor and educator, known for her contributions to women's health and medical education in Australia. She was one of the pioneering female doctors in the country, advocating for women's rights in the medical profession.

Early Life and Education

Violet Plummer was born in 1873 in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. She was the daughter of a prominent family, which supported her educational pursuits. Plummer attended the University of Sydney, where she was part of the second cohort of women admitted to study medicine.

Violet Plummer as a medical student in 1894

Medical Career

After graduating with a degree in medicine, Plummer began her career at the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in Sydney. She quickly became known for her dedication to patient care and her interest in women's health issues. Plummer was particularly focused on improving maternal and child health services, which were underdeveloped at the time.

Contributions to Medical Education

Plummer was a strong advocate for the inclusion of women in the medical profession. She believed that women brought unique perspectives and skills to medicine, particularly in areas related to women's health. Plummer was involved in teaching at the University of Sydney, where she mentored many young women entering the field.

Advocacy and Legacy

Throughout her career, Plummer was an active member of several professional organizations, including the Medical Women's Society of New South Wales. She worked tirelessly to promote the role of women in medicine and to improve healthcare services for women and children.

Violet Plummer with fellow medical students Christina Goode and Gertrude Mead in 1894

Later Life and Death

Violet Plummer retired from active medical practice in the 1950s but continued to be involved in medical education and advocacy until her death in 1962. Her contributions to the field of medicine and her role in advancing women's rights in the profession are remembered as significant milestones in Australian medical history.

Related Pages

• University of Sydney
• Royal Prince Alfred Hospital
• Medical Women's Society of New South Wales