In 1832, a significant development occurred in the medical community with the establishment of the Provincial Medical and Surgical Association, which would later become known as the British Medical Association (BMA). This formation was spearheaded by Sir Charles Hastings, a prominent figure in British medicine, during a meeting held in the Board Room of the Worcester Infirmary. The impetus for creating the association was driven by the need to forge stronger ties among medical practitioners and to enhance the quality of medical practice across the country.

The meeting attracted a variety of physicians and surgeons who recognized the shortcomings in medical education and the need for reform. One of the main objectives was to create a unified body that would advocate for the interests of medical professionals, encourage the sharing of knowledge, and establish standards for practice. The discussions during this foundational meeting focused on pressing issues such as the qualifications required to practice medicine, the status of medical schools, and the importance of professional identity.

The Provincial Medical and Surgical Association aimed to address these issues through more rigorous training and a commitment to ongoing professional development. Over the years, the association expanded its reach and influence, eventually evolving into the British Medical Association. This organization played an essential role in promoting public health initiatives and continuously worked towards improving the standards of medical education and practice in Britain, ultimately leading to better healthcare outcomes for the population.