An initiative is currently in progress within RCGP Wales
undertaken by Professor Nigel Stott, a Welsh Council Member.
The ancient history of general medical practice has been well
documented by Cule and others up to the foundation of the NHS in
the fourth decade of the 20
th Century. The political
leadership that led to the formation of the British NHS came from
Wales and general practitioners in the Principality have made many
notable contributions to the establishment of their discipline. The
contributions have been at local, national and international
levels.
Many general practices in Wales keep historic artefacts in
dusty corners or on display. Certificates, awards, surgical
instruments, maps, diagnostic instruments, ancient furniture,
leather-bound volumes, patient’s letters, short stories of critical
events, manuscripts, medical bags, historical photographs, diaries,
epidemiological data and other items can be seen in practices that
are proud of their history and of years of service in their
communities. Unfortunately items can become lost or destroyed if
the practitioners do not value them or if there is a problem over
storage.
General Practice is unique in the NHS for the diversity of
environments in which it has operated and for the ‘small unit’
ethos that has tended to enable both eccentricity and creativity to
develop. The history of general practice in the 19th
& 20th Centuries is important for future generations
to document and understand.
The Council of RCGP Wales has decided in to establish a
database of artefacts and manuscripts that throw light on the
history of general practice in the Principality. Many of these
objects are being kept in owner practices. A few are in the Welcome
History of Medicine Library in London, the RCGP Library at Princes
Gate, BMA House or in the care of local universities, libraries or
trusts.
RCGP Wales aims to place a historical value on each item by
recording its brief history, where it can be seen, its owner and a
unique archive number. The result will be a virtual collection of
items that reflect the history of general practice in Wales.
Tales from the History of General Practice in Wales