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A Welsh History of Medicine explores the rich and often overlooked story of how health and healing developed in Wales. From medieval folk remedies and the work of traditional healers to the influence of industrialisation, war, and modern science, the course provides an accessible journey through time. Drawing on original research in the ÌìÌì³Ô¹Ï archives and other historical sources, the sessions highlight the unique Welsh contribution to medicine, including the role of communities, the church, and local industries in shaping approaches to health. Participants will be introduced to fascinating individuals, case studies, and events, such as the work of bonesetters, the spread of infectious disease, and the emergence of hospitals in Wales. Each session will combine illustrated talks, discussion, and opportunities to engage with primary material in a relaxed and informal setting. No prior knowledge is required, and the course is designed to appeal both to those with a general interest in Welsh history and to those curious about the history of medicine more widely.

Learner Outcomes 

• To introduce learners to key themes and figures in the history of medicine in Wales.
• To develop an understanding of how social, cultural, and industrial change shaped approaches to health.
• To explore original historical sources and research in an accessible way.
• To encourage critical reflection on the connections between past and present healthcare.

Benefits of the Course

This course offers a rare chance to explore the medical past of Wales in an accessible and engaging way. Learners will uncover stories of local healers, communities, and medical pioneers whose work shaped health and wellbeing across the nation. By linking past practices with present-day issues, the course provides fresh perspectives that resonate with modern healthcare and social history. Sessions are designed to be friendly and discussion-based, creating an enjoyable environment for learning and connection. Whether motivated by curiosity about Welsh heritage, an interest in medicine, or a desire for lifelong learning, participants will come away with new knowledge, insights, and a deeper appreciation of Wales’s unique contribution to the history of medicine.

Course dates and times

The time is the same for each of the dates, 6:00PM - 8:00PM

• 17th November

• 24th November

• 1st of December

• 8th December

Location

Bangor(room to be confirmed)

Lecturer

Dr Dylan Jones (Lecturer in Biomedical Sciences (Haematology / Human Physiology)

Module lead for MSE-0003 History of Medicine, MSE-0004 Humans: Structure & Function, MSE-1021 Human Physiology, MSE-2006 Clinical Physiology, MSE-2015 Haematology & Transfusion, MSE-2026 Applied Clinical Technologies, MSE-3015 Haematology, MSE-4062 Diagnostic Sciences, MSE-4069 Applied Diagnostics Sciences, MSE-4090 Blood Sciences.

Contributing lecturer on MSE-1018 Clinical Sciences in Practice, MSE-1017 Key Skills in Medical Science, MSE-1019 Good Laboratory Practice, MSE-1020 Biomedical Practicals, MSE-2003 Research Skills, MSE-2017 Vocational Skills, MSE-3018 Clinical Biochemistry.

Project supervisor for MSE-3013 Research Project and MSE-3008 Dissertation. Dissertation subjects of interest include: role of polymorphisms in genetic regulatory regions, molecular evolution of virulence factors, antibiotic resistance, haematological malignancies and the role of genomics in their detection & management.  

Other roles include member of the SMS Board of Studies, member of the SMS Staff Student Liaison Committee and exams officer for SMS.

What will you study on this course?

Session 1: Roots of Healing – Folk Medicine & Early Traditions

Topics:

• Medieval healing practices in Wales
• Role of traditional healers, bonesetters, and midwives
• Influence of the church and religious institutions
• Early medical laws (e.g. Laws of Hywel Dda)

Session 2: Industry, Injury & Public Health

Topics:

• Health impacts of industrialisation (coal, slate, steel)
• Occupational medicine and community response to injury
• Emergence of public health measures (sanitation, housing, clean water)

Session 3: Epidemics, Wars & the Rise of Hospitals

Topics:

• Cholera, tuberculosis, and the spread of infectious disease
• How war shaped healthcare and medical organisation
• Founding of hospitals in Wales and the move toward formal medical care

Session 4: From Tradition to the NHS – Wales in Modern Medicine

Topics:

• Decline of folk medicine and rise of science-based medicine
• Creation of the NHS and Wales's role in its development
• The role of women and community nursing in 20th-century healthcare

This Short course is free.

To register your interest for this course, please click on the link below