Abstract

When the Southern Medical Association was founded in 1906, specialization in American medicine was uncommon and subspecialization was incredibly rare. To be a good physician at that time required a very broad knowledge but less of the in-depth knowledge that is the hallmark of the medical or surgical specialist today. Most doctors in the southern United States at that time were general practitioners. They provided whatever services that were necessary and within their capabilities. These included medicine, surgery, pharmacology, pediatrics and obstetrics. They practiced in relative isolation in small to medium sized towns throughout the region.