Patch Adams (Hunter Doherty Adams, born May 28, 1945) is an American physician, social activist, and author known for integrating humor and joy into medical practice. He founded the Gesundheit! Institute, advocating for a healthcare model centered on care, creativity, and laughter, opposing the commercialization of traditional medicine. His story was adapted into the 1998 film 'Patch Adams,' starring Robin Williams. Through clown performances and community health projects, Adams promotes humanized treatment, influencing global medical attention to patients' psychological well-being.
