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John Mackieson, physician, officeholder (b at Campsie, Scot 16 Oct 1795; d at Charlottetown 27 Aug 1885). A pioneer of the PEI medical profession, Mackieson was most distinguished by his work with the insane.
Mackieson, John
John Mackieson, physician, officeholder (b at Campsie, Scot 16 Oct 1795; d at Charlottetown 27 Aug 1885). A pioneer of the PEI medical profession, Mackieson was most distinguished by his work with the insane. A physician when he arrived in PEI in 1821, he served in a number of public-health posts before being appointed medical superintendent of the PEI lunatic asylum in 1848. His treatment of patients exhibited humanity and an understanding of new techniques, but persistent underfunding caused conditions to deteriorate at the hospital and ultimately his administration was denounced. Forced to resign in 1874, Mackieson was nevertheless cleared of charges of neglect. Subsequently the improved facilities he had sought were built.
