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The thematic study of Medicine in Britain, c.1250-present spans almost 1,000 years. Understanding the period's chronology and knowing some key themes is essential to understanding patterns of change and continuity. These patterns and factors that contributed to medical progress over time can each be observed and analysed.

Medicine in medieval England was based on religious, supernatural and rational ideas. The Church held great power over the practice of medicine. This was clear in the case of the Black Death, which reached Britain in 1348.

Medicine in Renaissance England changed little in terms of everyday practice. However, the development of science, new learning and new technology led to new ideas about the human body.

Medicine in 18th- and 19th-century Britain saw great change, especially following the publication of Louis Pasteur’s germ theory. This led to significant changes in surgery and better prevention of disease in the late 19th century.

Medicine in modern Britain has seen great advances in the 20th and 21st centuries as technology developed and the government became more involved in the health of the British people.

World War One presented new medical challenges for the British army. Fighting in the trenches and developments in weapons led to new illnesses and wounds that needed to be treated.