Medscape compiled a list of the most influential physicians within the last century based on their contributions to the medical field.
Here are a few of the physicians Medscape profiled:
1. Jonas Salk, MD. Born and raised in New York City, Dr. Salk created the first polio vaccine. The vaccine slashed polio incidence rates from 45,000 cases annually in the early 1950s to 910 cases in 1962. He was involved in AIDS research at the end of his life.
2. Benjamin Spock, MD. In his book, Common Sense Book of Baby and Child Care, Dr. Spock challenged the conventional approach to child-rearing. Published in 1946, the book defied common routines and the idea that parents should give their children minimal attention. Rather, Dr. Spock encouraged parents to draw on their parental instincts and common sense when raising children.
3. Aaron Beck, MD. The founder of cognitive therapy, many historians view Dr. Beck as one of the most influential psychotherapists to date. His work on conditions including suicide, anxiety disorders, alcoholism and many others led to how providers treat clinical depression.
4. Carl Jung, MD. Obtaining his medical degree from University of Zurich in 1902, Dr. Jung is the founder of analytical psychology. He conducted extensive research into the subconscious mind and his work continues to influence research in psychology and psychiatry.
For Medscape's full list of influential physicians, click here.