Battling Disease On The High Seas On this date in 1822, the first naval medical school was opened at the Philadelphia Navy Yard. In an era when many ships were decimated by highly contagious diseases for which medical officers had no cure, Dr. Thomas Harris of the Pennsylvania Hospital organized a course of instruction for newly commissioned assistant surgeons. One of the key subjects taught was naval hygiene. Throughout the years, Dr. Harris ran the (unofficial) medical school, the Department of Navy contributed money for books, instruments and equipment; all expenses to run the school were paid out of Dr. Harris' own pocket. The school was discontinued in 1843 when the Navy transferred Dr. Harris after refusing his monetary request of 400 dollars.
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