Gia'nna - Dr. Helen Octavia Dickens
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About Dr. Helen Octavia Dickens
African American doctor, Dr. Helen Octavia Dickens (1909–2001) made important contributions to public health, medical education, and women's health.
Career Highlights
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Graduated from the University of Illinois College of Medicine in 1934 as one of only two women and the sole African American woman in her class.
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Became the first African American woman to be board-certified in obstetrics and gynecology in Philadelphia in 19454.
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In 1950, she became the first African American woman admitted as a fellow of the American College of Surgeons.
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Joined the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine in 1956, becoming the first African American woman on its staff and faculty.
Contributions to Women's Health
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Founded the Teen Clinic at the University of Pennsylvania in 1967, one of the country's first teen pregnancy clinics.
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Led initiatives for cancer prevention, family planning, and teen sexual health education.
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Worked to raise awareness about cancer risks among Black women, organizing educational seminars in churches and collaborating with organizations like the American Cancer Society.
Quotes and Personal Insights
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In a 1988 interview, she said, "I got it into my head that if I were going to be a nurse, I might as well be a doctor".
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Describing her work with the Aspiranto Health Home in Philadelphia, Dickens recalled, "It was very exciting. You were going into the homes. You see all these people. You were taking responsibility for the care of people".
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Speaking about the reluctance of some women to receive medical care, she told the Philadelphia Evening Bulletin, "A lot of women are reluctant to get medical checkups that include pelvic exams".
Legacy
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In 1969, she became the first associate dean of Minority Affairs at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine.
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The Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania named The Helen O. Dickens Center for Women's Health in her honor.
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Her work significantly improved the health and lives of women, particularly in the Black community, through her advocacy, education, and clinical practice.
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