Family Doctor

In 1932, the show Family Doctor graced the airwaves for a short time. It was a show that centered on Dr. Grant Adams, a family doctor in small town America. Not only does Dr. Adams help people keep their health care in check, he also dispenses moral advice.

In 1932, the show Family Doctor graced the airwaves for a short time. It was a show that centered on Dr. Grant Adams, a family doctor in small town America. Not only does Dr. Adams help people keep their health care in check, he also dispenses moral advice.

For a small town show, Family Doctor had its share of major problems. There were episodes that were dedicated to robbery or serious social issues such as suicide and runaways and Dr. Adams always responded to such emergencies with wisdom and gentle kindness while taking care of the needs of the town. He usually did more than just help out with the latest medical worry; he tried to get to the root of the problems of the town citizens.

The modern listener will enjoy the remedies for illnesses that can be heard on the show. It’s a far cry from today’s modern medicine, but the issues are timeless. While the cases may have changed, this show was one of the original medical dramas that gave rise to the popular television genre we still enjoy today.  Other radio shows that had a similar medical twist include Dr. Kildare, Dr. Christian and Young Doctor Malone.

The show wasn’t flashy. It didn’t have a lot of sound effects and action, but it told simple stories that the average American could relate to – especially those who lived in small towns.

Family Doctor was a short-lived series, but the audience that listened to it tuned in weekly to hear Dr. Adams give his advice and words of wisdom along with a spoonful of medicine. He was the central character of the town and was asked for advice by everyone from the police chief to the mayor. 

The charm of the small town doctor is no longer found in modern America where large corporations have taken over medical care, but listening to Family Doctor, you can imagine what it would be like to have someone who still makes house calls living just down the street. The show only aired for a short time, but many episodes are still available to listen to today and I will be adding some to RUSC for your enjoyment throughout the coming week.

Happy listening my friends,