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Tag: Healthcare history

Explore our comprehensive collection of health articles in this category.

The Etymology of Healing: Why is a medical patient called a patient?

4 min read
The word *patient* is derived from the Latin term *patiens*, which is directly related to *patior*, meaning 'to suffer' or 'to endure'. This deep historical root, dating back to at least the 14th century, is the primary reason why a medical patient is called a patient, though the term's connotations have evolved significantly.

When did we start calling doctors providers?

4 min read
The use of the term 'provider' to refer to physicians and other medical professionals became prominent in the United States during the late 20th century, particularly influenced by insurance and governmental language. This terminology shift raises questions about its origins, including: **When did we start calling doctors providers?**

What were care tools used for? A historical and modern perspective

4 min read
As far back as 5,000 years ago, ancient civilizations used rudimentary surgical tools for basic medical procedures. To understand the advances in healthcare, it's essential to explore **what were care tools used for** across different historical periods and what they signify about patient treatment.

When was rapid response established? Unpacking the origins of RRTs

5 min read
Studies in the early 1990s revealed that many in-hospital cardiac arrests were preceded by noticeable signs of clinical deterioration. This critical discovery led directly to the development of the first rapid response systems (RRS) in the mid-1990s, which were designed to intervene and prevent such catastrophic events.

Why is Mayo Clinic Rochester so famous? Unpacking its global renown

5 min read
In 1889, Mayo Clinic's origins in Rochester, Minnesota, were solidified by a handshake agreement following a devastating tornado. This foundational moment sparked the creation of a unique medical institution, laying the groundwork for why is Mayo Clinic Rochester so famous, a question that countless people across the globe seek to answer. Its reputation is built on a legacy of integrated practice, continuous innovation, and a profound commitment to the patient.