John P. McGovern, MD – Physician, Entrepreneur, Philanthropist

Abstract

For much of its history, the American Medical Writers Association (AMWA) bestowed 4 awards in honor of 4 of its members: Harold Swanberg, MD, the founder of the Association; Walter Alvarez, MD, in retirement, a nationally syndicated health columnist; Eric Martin, PhD, a pharmacist instrumental in professionalizing regulatory writing; and John P. McGovern, MD, a philanthropist who supported initiatives in biomedical communication. However, the details of the lives of these men are unknown to most AMWA members. Accordingly, this biography describes the life and accomplishments of John P. McGovern, to recognize his achievements and to contribute to the history of the profession and of the Association.