The article is dedicated to the memory of the outstanding clinician, honored scientist of the BSSR, corresponding member of the Academy of Sciences of the BSSR, Doctor of Medical Sciences, professor S. M. Melkikh. The main background information, important milestones of his scientific and teaching activity, his contribution to the organization of the medical faculty of the Belarusian State University, and then the Minsk Medical Institute, the formation of therapeutic schools in Belarus, his role in practical public health are elucidated.