Dr. Geraldine Branch

Born in Savannah, Georgia, in 1908 and raised in Brownsville, Brooklyn, New York, Dr. Geraldine Branch was inspired as a child by Alice Woodby McKane, a Black woman who was one of the first female doctors and who established the Charity Hospital in Savannah in the late 1890’s. After attending Hunter College and New York Medical College, she began her medical career at Harlem Hospital. Dr. Branch faced challenges in a male-dominated field but found success, particularly in obstetrics and gynecology, where she had an impeccable record. Her passion for healthcare extended beyond clinical practice, and she became involved in public health efforts through the Watts Health Center in Los Angeles. When she was disciplined for providing medical care during her volunteer work in Watts, Dr. Branch rallied members of the community and petitioned County Supervisor Kenneth Hahn to establish the Martin Luther King Hospital, so that Watts and surrounding neighborhoods could have better healthcare. When Dr. Branch began working in geriatrics, she was troubled by the low quality of life of many elders. This led to the creation of adult day health care centers, a model still used today. Dr. Branch emphasizes to young people the importance of preparation, setting goals, and working with others to achieve them.