Vale Emeritus Professor John Murtagh AO
We mourn the passing of Emeritus Professor John Murtagh AO this week, who died peacefully at age 89, surrounded by family.
It is with heavy hearts we share news of the passing of Emeritus Professor John Murtagh AO, who died peacefully at age 89, surrounded by family. Professor Murtagh's extraordinary contribution to medicine and general practice has left an indelible mark on healthcare in Australia and across the globe.
His seminal work, John Murtagh's General Practice, has become the pre-eminent reference textbook for general practitioners, medical students, and registrars worldwide. This groundbreaking textbook has educated generations of doctors across more than 20 countries, fundamentally shaping modern general practice.
In 2018, the AMA recognised Professor Murtagh with our highest honour, the AMA Gold Medal. As then-President Dr Michael Gannon noted: "Professor Murtagh's contribution to medicine and general practice as both a doctor and an educator in Australia is incomparable."
Throughout his career, Professor Murtagh revolutionised medical education through his innovative teaching methods, empowered patients by making medical knowledge accessible, and inspired countless doctors with his compassionate, patient-centred approach to care.
As we farewell this giant of Australian medicine, we celebrate a life devoted to healing, teaching, and advancing healthcare not just in Australia, but across the world.
