This book offers an analysis of the formation of contemporary hospital
systems between the mid-19th century and the mid-20th century. Based on
extensive archival material and a broad international literature review,
it focuses on the case of the canton of Vaud, Switzerland, and uses a
triple approach that discusses technological innovations, hospital
management, and health policy. This research is a major contribution to
the history of medicine which gives a unique overview of the formation
of contemporary hospital systems.