What is a Physician?
View the evolution of medical practitioners from the 16th century to present day
Apothecary
Makes up medicines for treatment
Learn by apprenticeship to a master, as a trade
Physician
Diagnoses disease and gives instructions for treatment
Learn through reading medical theory, as an academic qualification
Surgeon
Deals with wounds and injuries, using instruments
Learn by apprenticeship to a master, as a trade
Apothecary
Now diagnosing disease and giving instructions for treatment
Introducing standards for making up medicines
Physician
Now learning practical medical skills and doing medical research
Surgeon
Now learning through a combination of academic qualifications and practical experience
Apothecary
Increasing specialisation between pharmacy and general medical practice
Physician
Increasing specialisation in terms of non surgical treatments and medical science
Surgeon
Increasing specialisation in terms of surgical treatments and medical science
Apothecary
Two professions, pharmacist and general practitioner (GP) with distinct qualifications
Physician
Hospital or laboratory based specialist for non surgical branches of medicine
Surgeon
Hospital or laboratory based specialist for surgical branches of medicine