Washington University School of Medicine Oral History Project Washington University School of Medicine Bernard Becker Medical Library
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Frances H. Stewart

Interviewer: William R. Massa  
Date: May 17, 1977
Identifier: OH033
Approximate Length: 32 min.
Biographical Information: Physician (1904-1987). Stewart received her medical degree from the Washington University School of Medicine in 1927 and practiced as an obstetrician and gynecologist in St. Louis for over 50 years. Interested in family planning and prenatal care, Stewart served as medical director of Planned Parenthood of St. Louis and on the clinical faculty of the Washington University School of Medicine.
Summary: Stewart briefly discusses her experiences in medical school at the Washington University School of Medicine, her remembrances of professor Ernest Sachs, and her internship at St. Louis Maternity Hospital. Stewart recounts the beginning of the first contraceptive clinic in St. Louis, the Maternal Health Association of Missouri (later Planned Parenthood of St. Louis), and some of its founders, Frederick J. Taussig, Robert J. Crossen, and Helen Buss. She also recalls her work at the clinic and its development over the years. The interview concluded with a discussion about problems with medical malpractice insurance and the rising cost of medical care.
Notes: Audio quality of interview is poor.

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