Melbourne, Victoria — The medical community is in mourning following the passing of Emeritus Professor John Murtagh AO, a towering figure in Australian general practice and a global authority in family medicine. Professor Murtagh died peacefully at the Alfred Hospital in Melbourne, surrounded by his family, at the age of 89 (9News).
Known affectionately as “Australia’s most famous GP,” Professor Murtagh’s contributions to general practice are immeasurable. His seminal work, John Murtagh’s General Practice, first published in 1994, has become a cornerstone of medical education, serving as a comprehensive guide for medical students and practitioners alike. The textbook, spanning 1,535 pages, is renowned for its practical approach and has been translated into multiple languages, reflecting its global impact (RACGP).
Beyond his written work, Professor Murtagh was a dedicated educator and mentor. He served as a Professorial Fellow of General Practice at the University of Melbourne and held positions at Monash University, where he influenced generations of medical professionals. His commitment to teaching and his ability to simplify complex medical concepts earned him the admiration of both students and colleagues (Monash University).
Professor Murtagh’s influence extended internationally. He was a guest professor at Peking University in Beijing, China, and an adjunct clinical professor at the University of Notre Dame in Western Australia. His work has been instrumental in shaping general practice education worldwide, and his legacy continues to inspire healthcare professionals across the globe (WOOMB International).
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to medicine, Professor Murtagh was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO). This honor reflects his unwavering dedication to improving healthcare delivery and his profound impact on the medical community. His work has not only advanced the field of general practice but has also improved the quality of care for countless patients.
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) expressed deep sorrow at his passing, describing him as a “giant of Australian general practice.” The RACGP highlighted his role in elevating the standards of general practice and his enduring influence on the profession (RACGP).
Professor Murtagh’s passing marks the end of an era in Australian medicine. His contributions have left an indelible mark on the field of general practice, and his legacy will continue to guide and inspire future generations of healthcare professionals.
In his final weeks, Professor Murtagh completed the latest edition of his textbook, underscoring his lifelong commitment to education and his passion for advancing medical knowledge. His dedication to the field remained unwavering until the end of his remarkable career (ausdoc.com.au).
As the medical community reflects on his life and work, Professor Murtagh’s legacy serves as a testament to the power of education, compassion, and dedication in shaping the future of healthcare. His contributions have not only enriched the field of general practice but have also touched the lives of countless individuals worldwide.
Professor Murtagh is survived by his family, who have expressed pride in his enduring legacy and the profound impact he had on the field of medicine. His passing is a significant loss to the medical community, but his contributions will continue to inspire and guide healthcare professionals for generations to come.