EVOLUTION OF CLINICAL SCIENCE - AN OVERVIEW

An overview is presented of immortals, institutions, and discoveries o f past ages which have contributed to the furtherance of clinical scie nce. The presentation is divided into two parts: I. Noteworthy contrib utions to the development of clinical science-1500 to 1700 A.D. II. No teworthy contributions to the development of clinical science-1700 to 1949 A.D. The time has come for a transformation and rejuvenation of c linical laboratories in hospitals and medical institutions in our coun try. In recent years, the clinical investigative mission of hospital l aboratories has been grossly neglected owing, in large measure, to the increased work loads for analytical service that are required for pat ient care. However, commercial corporations have now gradually invaded the field of clinical laboratory services, so that in the foreseeable future clinical laboratories will be afforded more time and opportuni ties for fulfillment of the investigative mission. The objectives of c linical science are to conserve health and to cure disease. By promoti ng the investigative point of view, clinical science will be destined to contribute to the furtherance of its objectives.