British Medical Association

The British Medical Association (BMA) was founded on 19 July 1832 as the Provincial Medical and Surgical Association by Sir Charles Hastings and about 50 doctors in the boardroom of Worcester Infirmary to promote medical sciences and counter London dominance in medical practice.[1][2] It merged with another group in 1856, adopting its current name, and publishes the British Medical Journal while serving as a trade union and professional body for UK doctors.[1][7] The BMA has influenced healthcare policy, including early support for a national health service.[2]