knowledge center home primary care a history of medicine what is medicine? Medicine has two basic meanings, it refers to 1. The Science of Healing; the practice of the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of disease, and the promotion of health. 2. Medications, drugs, substances used to treat and cure diseases, and to promote health. This collection of articles focuses on the science of healing, its history from prehistoric times until today, and the medications and healing methods used.

Some people might call medicine a regulated patient-focused health profession which is devoted to the health and well-being of patients.

Whichever way medicine is described, the thrust of the meaning is the same - diagnosis, treatment and prevention of disease, caring for patients and a dedication to their health and well-being.

According to Medilexicon's medical dictionary, Medicine is:

2. The art of preventing or curing disease; the science concerned with disease in all its relations.

3. The study and treatment of general diseases or those affecting the internal parts of the body, especially those not usually requiring surgical intervention.

This history of medicine section was written by Christian Nordqvist for Medical News Today on 9 August 2012 , and may not be re-produced in any way without the permission of Medical News Today.

Disclaimer: This informational section on Medical News Today is regularly reviewed and updated, and provided for general information purposes only. The materials contained within this guide do not constitute medical or pharmaceutical advice, which should be sought from qualified medical and pharmaceutical advisers.

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What Is Medicine? A History Of Medicine