Worcester as a Pioneering Provincial Centre of Medical Publishing and Reform, 1828–1854

The fact that Worcester Infirmary provided the location for the founding of the Provincial (later British) Medical Association has long been commemorated as a highlight of the city’s history. This paper seeks to extend our understanding of the significance of this event by placing it in the broader historical context of the campaign for medical reform. In doing so, the paper links together the origins and early activities of the Association with the emergence and consolidation of Worcester as arguably the leading centre for medical publishing in England, outside of London, during the period 1828 to 1854. Hence, in charting the significant part played by Worcester’s doctors in driving the process of medical advancement and reform, the paper also gives due credit to the supporting role played by the city’s leading newspaper publisher during these years, namely the firm of H.B. Tymbs and H. Deighton, particularly through its collaboration in the ground-breaking launch of the Midland Medical and Surgical Reporter in 1828.