Diane F. Merritt, MD

Diane F. Merritt, M.D., is a professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and a staff physician at Barnes-Jewish Hospital, St. Louis Children’s Hospital, and Missouri Baptist Medical Center. Merritt is nationally known for her expertise in pediatric and adolescent gynecology.

Merritt earned her medical degree at New York University. She was a house officer at Barnes Hospital from 1975 to 1980, and then joined the faculty of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. She credits pediatric surgeon Dr. Jessie Ternberg for inspiring her to begin a program in pediatric gynecology that today is internationally known and respected.

Merritt has trained generations of medical students, residents and fellows, as well as international physicians in the art of medicine and the subtleties of gynecology of the child and adolescent. She is internationally recognized for her work in reconstructive surgery for congenital anomalies of the reproductive tract, repair of genital injuries, and adolescent sexuality. She is known as a patient advocate. Her colleagues regard her as an invaluable source of diagnostic expertise and clinical advice.

Merritt has assumed leadership positions at Washington University including serving on the Executive Committee of the Faculty Council, Faculty Senate Council, and Academic Freedom and Tenure Committee. She is a past president of the Academic Women’s Network. Merritt is a founding member and current president of the North American Society of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology. She is a consultant to the Reproductive Health Drugs Advisory Committee of the FDA and is vice-chair of the Committee on Adolescent Health Care at the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

Merritt has received the 2005 Humanism in Medicine Award, numerous teaching awards and a Distinguished Service Teaching Award from the students at Washington University School of Medicine. She is a member of Alpha Omega Alpha, and has been named as one of the Best Doctors in America (1996-2008) and among America’s Top Doctors (2000-2008).