Ben Redmond Lawton (July 17, 1922 – May 18, 1987) was an American physician, general and thoracic surgeon, healthcare-reformer, educator, and president of the University of Wisconsin's board of regents from 1984 to 1986.

He was admitted to the University of Wisconsin (UW) in 1940, where he majored in zoology and was elected to membership in Phi Eta Sigma, a national honor society.

After completing his bachelor's degree while working part-time as a milkman, Lawton matriculated to the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine, learning under Dean William Shainline Middleton.

When Wisconsin Governor Patrick Lucey was elected in 1970, he constituted a state Health Planning Policy Task Force and named Lawton as its chairperson.

This event recognized Lawton's advocacy for egalitarianism, service to the underprivileged, and development of modern medical research and education.

[1] Lawton was always a forward-thinker regarding the delivery of medical care, and was one of the first vocal supporters of physician assistant (PA) training programs.