Pre-twentieth-century health provision in Britain: an introductory sketch

Abstract

Unnecessary hospital admissions have long been a subject of concern to doctors and administrators; a concern which centres mainly on cost and the use of hospital beds in short supply. But there is also growing concern amongst all sections of society about the harm which may be caused by removal to hospital at times when we are particularly vulnerable to pressures from which home and family traditionally protect us. At such times we may be incapable of action to avoid such removal, so it is a relief to know that doctors have the responsibility of deciding when it should take place.