International Women's Day is an opportunity to celebrate the outstanding achievements of women in various fields. In the healthcare industry, women have made significant strides in research, policy-making, and improving patient care. These trailblazers have paved the way for future generations of women in health, breaking barriers and making history. In this article, we celebrate the achievements of five exceptional women who have made a significant impact in the healthcare industry.

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1. Dr. Mona Hanna-Attisha

Dr. Mona Hanna-Attisha is a pediatrician and public health advocate who played a crucial role in exposing the water crisis in Flint, Michigan. Her research showed that the children of Flint were being exposed to dangerously high levels of lead due to contaminated water. Her work led to increased awareness of the crisis and ultimately to the declaration of a state of emergency. Dr. Hanna-Attisha's work is a testament to the power of advocacy and the crucial role of healthcare professionals in public health crises.

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2. Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett

Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett is a viral immunologist who played a pivotal role in developing the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine. Her work on coronavirus research dates back to the 2003 SARS outbreak. She led the development of the mRNA vaccine technology that was used in the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine. Dr. Corbett's groundbreaking work has contributed significantly to the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic and has saved countless lives worldwide.

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3. Dr. Mae Jemison

Dr. Mae Jemison is a physician, engineer, and astronaut. She was the first African-American woman to travel in space, aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour in 1992. After leaving NASA, she founded the Jemison Group, a company focused on improving healthcare in developing countries. Dr. Jemison's career is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of representation in healthcare and STEM fields.‍

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4. Dr. Patricia Bath

Dr. Patricia Bath was an ophthalmologist and inventor who developed the Laserphaco Probe, a medical device that revolutionized the treatment of cataracts. Her invention made cataract surgery faster and more precise, and it was particularly beneficial for patients with limited access to healthcare. Dr. Bath was the first African-American woman to complete a residency in ophthalmology and the first African-American woman to receive a medical patent.

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5. Dr. Ellen Ochoa

Dr. Ellen Ochoa is a physicist, engineer, and former astronaut. She was the first Hispanic woman to travel in space, aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery in 1993. After leaving NASA, she became the director of the Johnson Space Center, the first Hispanic person and the second woman to hold the position. Dr. Ochoa's career is a testament to the power of resilience and determination, and the importance of representation in STEM fields.

These five women are just a few examples of the many outstanding women in health who have made significant contributions to the healthcare industry. Their work has inspired countless others to pursue careers in healthcare, and they continue to pave the way for future generations. As we celebrate International Women's Day, let us honor these trailblazers and continue to advocate for gender equality in the healthcare industry and beyond.

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