A history of health care from a primary care perspective with Värmland as an example

The major epidemics and common diseases are described. For most of history, academic doctors served only the elite. When ordinary people fell ill, they turned to local healers and midwives or to itinerant clerks, barbers and medicine men. In the 18th century, priests were made responsible for the health of the population. Until the end of the 19th century, doctors and midwives worked in patients' homes. Hospitals and clinics served mainly as places of detention. From the turn of the 20th century onwards, modern, specialized hospitals emerged. During the 19th century, a number of biomedical discoveries were made and new examination methods were developed. The nursing profession was established and midwives were employed across the country. A lively debate on sexuality, prostitution, abortion and contraception took off and reached its peak in the following century. The great fight against tuberculosis in the 20th century is given a lot of attention. The discovery of sulfa, penicillin and insulin and the development of drugs for cardiovascular diseases are described, as is the plight of the mentally handicapped and the mentally ill. The role of women in the predominantly patriarchal history of health care is highlighted. A number of strong players among midwives, early female doctors and nurses are presented.The final part describes the emergence of contemporary primary care with its opportunities and challenges. It also presents the criticism that modern medicine has been subjected to.