Dr. Susan La Flesche Picotte was the first Indigenous woman to become a physician. Inspired by a women’s rights advocate, she attended the Women’s Medical College of Pennsylvania, the first medical school for women in the country. After graduating as valedictorian, she returned to her home reservation. As the only physician serving the Omaha community (1,350 square miles), she worked tirelessly to increase healthcare access for the Omaha. The more traditional tribe members constantly questioned her education and skill, yet she remained devoted to helping members of her tribe. She was instrumental in opening the first modern hospital in Thurston County, Nebraska.
Dr. Susan La Flesche Picotte, MD
Physician