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Worcester and the British Medical Association
The British Medical Association (BMA) was founded by Sir Charles Hastings (1794-1866) at a meeting in the Board Room of Worcester Infirmary on 19th July 1832. Fifty doctors were present to hear Hastings propose the inauguration of an Association both friendly and scientific. Called the Provincial Medical and Surgical Association (PMSA) until 1856, the Association's objectives were to promote the medical and allied sciences and to maintain the honour and interests of the medical profession - aims which remain the same today. From early in his career, Dr Hastings had been sure that public health should be the responsibility of the state. His work in Worcester with occupational the diseases suffered by glovers, leather workers, needlepointers and those working in the manufacture and decoration of porcelain had convinced him that doctors needed also to prevent disease as well as to cure it. Worcester's medical association was not unique, but through Charles Hastings efforts it became recognised as the most authoritative in the country which led to its establishment as the BMA following the passing of the Medical Act in 1856.
