Medicine through the ages

Posted in: History Lesson 27th June 2018

In anticipation of the National Health Service (NHS) turning 70 in July, healthcare consumables supplier, Valley Northern, has released an infographic showcasing the development of medicine and healthcare through the ages that has led to universal healthcare for all in the UK. The infographic can be downloaded from the Valley Northern website at www.valleynorthern.com/downloads.

From early medical prescriptions dating back to the Third Dynasty of Ur in 2004 BC through to the NHS turning 70 on July 5, 2018, the advancements in healthcare and medicine through the ages has transformed the wellbeing of the globe.

“Many people are unaware of the developments that have taken place in medical history,” Oliver Pittock, managing director at Valley Northern explained. “Whether it be the development of inoculations back in the 19th Century, or the introduction of kidney dialysis just over 30 years ago, we have a lot to be thankful for, particularly with our NHS service providing healthcare to the nation.

“The NHS deals with over 1 million patients every 36 hours,” continued Pittock. “The NHS covers everything from routine treatments and long-term illness care through to antenatal screening and emergency medical support. However, hospitals in England ended 2017 with twice as big a deficit as expected, meaning that the public needs to be mindful of how they use the services the NHS provides.

“We’re all aware of the stress the NHS is under,” Pittock added. “So, using auxiliary services, like local pharmacies can help alleviate the pressure direct front line services are under. As we celebrate the NHS’s 70th birthday, we should not only celebrate the developments that have occurred throughout medical history, but also be mindful as to what the future may hold for our universal healthcare provider.”

Valley Northern provides healthcare and pharmacy supplies across the UK healthcare network, including packaging, consumables and general medical management supplies. The history of medicine infographic can be downloaded from the Valley Northern website at www.valleynorthern.com/downloads.