'Bimaristan' - the teaching hospital of the Islamic Civilization

The importance of medical science in Islam can be traced back to the early days of Islamic civilization, where it was greatly influenced by the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad and the Quran. 

Islamic medicine was not only about treating the sick but also about preventing illness through public health and hygiene, which were integral parts of Islamic teachings. The Hadiths, sayings of the Prophet Muhammad, contain numerous references to health and medicine, highlighting the importance of cleanliness and diet.

Before the Islamic era, medical care was largely provided by priests in sanatoriums and annexes to temples. 

The early Muslim physicians and scholars made significant contributions to medical science. They established hospitals, known as Bimaristans, which served as centers for medical treatment and learning. These institutions were among the first to segregate wards based on gender and disease, maintain patient records, and provide pharmacies.

Bimaristans were revolutionary medical institutions that provided comprehensive healthcare services to all individuals, regardless of their race, religion, gender, or illness. They were often established as charitable trusts and were a precursor to the modern teaching hospital.

The first major bimaristan was founded in Damascus in 706 CE. These hospitals were equipped with medicinal herbs, pharmacies, and full-time physicians. They were constructed in city centers and were designed to provide optimum health conditions for patients.

Patients received treatment free of charge, and no one was turned away. This included those with mental illnesses and contagious diseases, showcasing the inclusive and advanced approach to healthcare at the time.

Bimaristans also served as centers for medical education, where newly graduated physicians could learn and practice medicine according to the latest medical knowledge. This system ensured that medical care was not only accessible but also of high quality, reflecting the Islamic world’s commitment to welfare and knowledge.

Notable figures like Al-Zahrawi, often referred to as the father of surgery, introduced many surgical instruments and techniques that form the basis of many that are still in use today. His work, along with others like Ibn Sina (Avicenna), whose ‘Canon of Medicine’ was a standard medical text in Europe for centuries, showcases the profound impact of Islamic medical scholarship. 

The principles of medical ethics in Islam also played a crucial role. The concept of preserving life is paramount, and it is considered a communal obligation to provide healthcare. This led to the development of a system where physicians were required to pass examinations for licensure, ensuring a high standard of medical care. 

In conclusion, medical science in Islam is a testament to the Islamic civilization’s commitment to knowledge, healthcare, and ethical medical practice. The legacy of Islamic medicine is evident in its contributions to the foundation of modern medical science and its continued influence on medical principles and ethics.