Medical Examinations by W. A. R.

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Mar 28, 1907

Medical Examinations

By W. A. R.

The relating of two recent experiences with those who formulate the rules pertaining to medical examinations, may be of interest to our people in general; and to those who are desirous of securing medical registration in the District of Columbia or Maryland, it might be of particular interest.

Reference to the medical laws of these sections shows that the medical examinations heretofore have been held partly on the Sabbath. This had made it impossible for Seventh-day Adventists to secure recognition in either place, which has been a great hardship to us on account of our institutions in the District and in Maryland. Having met this difficulty, and been unable to take the examination on this account, the writer determined to make an effort to secure a change in the days on which the examinations were held. The president of the medical board of Maryland was approached at the January meeting, and he was of the opinion that the ruling was a law of the State. Upon request, however, he investigated, and found it to be a ruling of the medical board. He promised to present the matter to the board and secure a change of days, if possible. He did so that evening, and reported immediately that a change was made so that the examination would begin on Tuesday.

Investigation of the matter in the District revealed the fact that the time of the examination was fixed by law enacted by the Congress of the United States. Undaunted, an effort was made to secure a change making the examination begin on Tuesday instead of Thursday. This necessitated the passage of a law by Congress. Through the kindness and untiring efforts of Senator Burkett, of Nebraska, the bill was introduced in the Senate, referred to the District Committee, and passed by these and the House of Representatives, and became a law when signed by the President.

These changes make it possible for our physicians to enter for the examinations in the District and in Maryland, as they have been able to do in other States, and the change is very much appreciated. We recognize the help of Providence in securing these favors. W. A. R.