History of medicine

Medicine, the study of the human body, its diseases and its cures, has existed since time immemorial, though scientific study and public healthcare are modern phenomena.

While health and medical tourism can be practical concerns for travellers, the history of medicine can be a theme of science tourism.

There is some overlap with military tourism as the armed forces have in many cases been a forerunner in professional medical care.

Hygiene and body care has been a part of healthcare (including treatments such as sauna) with people seeking out spas to improve health, in particular in 19th-century Europe.