The Rhode Island House of Representatives has introduced a resolution to celebrate National Women Physicians Day on February 3, 2026. This day commemorates the birthday of Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell, the first woman to earn a medical degree in the United States in 1849, who advocated for women's participation in medicine and established the Women's Medical College in New York City. The resolution also highlights the contributions of female physicians, including Dr. Velma Scantlebury-White, the first Black woman transplant surgeon in the U.S., who has made significant strides in the medical field and is dedicated to educating communities about organ donation.

The resolution acknowledges the progress women have made in the medical profession, noting that as of early 2025, there are approximately 424,000 female physicians in the U.S., representing 38.5% of the physician workforce. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing the achievements of women in medicine, advocating for equal pay and leadership opportunities, and inspiring future generations of female physicians. The resolution concludes by directing the Secretary of State to transmit a certified copy to the President of the Rhode Island Medical Women's Association.