Antonia Novello, MD

Dr. Antonia Novello was born in Fajardo, Puerto Rico on August 23, 1944. Growing up, Novello's mother emphasized the importance of education, hard work, respect, and care for others, ideals that stayed with Novello throughout her life. 

As a child, Novello suffered from a condition called congenital megacolon, an abnormality of the large intestine. Her family could not afford the surgery that would correct it, so she received interim treatment in a local hospital until she was able to receive the surgery at 18 years old. This experience inspired Novello to want to become a doctor, so that she could help other sick children, especially those who lacked access to medical care.

After earning her MD and working in private practice, she felt that working in the public health field would allow her the opportunity to improve health for the broader population. This eventually led her to the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) in 1987. While at NICHD she focused on pediatric AIDS. Because of her work in this area, President George Bush appointed Dr. Novello to the post of Surgeon General of the United States in 1990. This made her not only the first woman appointment to this position, but also the first person of Hispanic origin. 

In her position she focused on the health care of women, children, and minorities. Her dedication to providing quality care to women and children continued even after she stepped down as Surgeon General in 1993.

Learn more about Dr. Antonia Novello and her achievements.

Learn more about other history making Hispanic doctors.