John Rutherford (physician)

John Rutherford (1695 – 6 December 1779) was a Scottish physician and professor of medicine. He is notable as one of the key figures in the development of medical education in Edinburgh and a founder of the Edinburgh Medical School.

Rutherford was born in Yarrow, Selkirkshire. He studied at the University of Edinburgh, graduating with an MD in 1719. He then travelled to Leiden and Paris for further medical studies.

In 1726, Rutherford was appointed Professor of Medicine at the University of Edinburgh. He was instrumental in modernizing medical education by introducing clinical teaching at the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. He emphasized bedside teaching and practical experience for students, a departure from the traditional lecture-based approach. He believed strongly in the importance of observing patients and developing diagnostic skills.

Rutherford was a co-founder of the Edinburgh Medical School in 1726, alongside Alexander Monro (primus) and Andrew Plummer. This institution rapidly became one of the leading medical schools in Europe.

Rutherford also served as Physician to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh. He resigned his professorship in 1766 in favour of his son, Daniel Rutherford. He died in Edinburgh in 1779.

Rutherford was the grandfather of Sir Walter Scott, through his daughter Anne Rutherford, who married Walter Scott, Writer to the Signet. His commitment to clinical teaching and his role in establishing the Edinburgh Medical School solidified his legacy as a pioneer in medical education.