ancient + medieval

• Hospitals in Ancient to 16th Century

  Often guided by the church, viewed as places of prayer and refuge, limited medical care, emphasis on religious practice
• Hospitals in Medieval Period

  Mostly religious buildings attached to monasteries, offered hospitality, some food, and warmth, minimal medical treatment, patients encouraged to pray
• Hospital Functions

  Some treated minor ailments, herbal-based remedies used, chaplains provided spiritual care, patients spent much time praying
• Specialized Hospitals

  Some hospitals focused on specific groups like pregnant women or lepers, limited treatment, emphasis on accommodation and basic care
• Leprosy Hospitals

  Set up to accommodate lepers, provided food and shelter, no treatment offered, located on outskirts of towns to prevent contagion
• Almhouses

  Provided accommodation and food, primarily for the elderly, sometimes housed young children and travelers temporarily
• Patient Care

  Basic during this period, focused on religious elements, provided essentials like food and shelter, limited medical treatment