A recent examination of Roman-era medical instruments has shed light on what could potentially be one of the earliest examples of a group medical practice. The artifacts, a total of 348, were discovered at the site of Allianoi, an ancient town in present-day Turkey that also housed a large spa-like bath. The findings indicate that the site may have once functioned as an ancient medical center, where healthcare practitioners gathered to treat people.

The artifacts, which are approximately 1,800 years old, were discovered during rescue excavations carried out between 1998 and 2006, prior to the construction of a dam that ultimately flooded the site. Most of the instruments were found within two buildings of a larger complex, providing strong evidence of a medical facility.

Archaeologist Sarah Yeomans from St. Mary's College of Maryland presented the research at the annual meeting of the Society for Classical Studies, stating that "Allianoi was, perhaps, one of the earliest known cases of an organized, group medical practice." Yeomans further highlighted the categories and variety of surgical instruments found, suggesting that relatively sophisticated surgical procedures, such as the removal of hemorrhoids, bladder and kidney stones, cataract surgery, and suturing of wounds, were performed at the center.

The exact number of practitioners working at Allianoi remains unknown, but Yeomans believes there were likely dozens or even more, depending on the time period. However, she clarifies that the site did not operate like a modern-day medical practice, where all individuals work for a single business. Instead, it resembled the renowned Harley Street in 19th-century London, where various specialists set up their practices in close proximity to one another.

Although not directly involved in the new research, archaeology professor Daniş Baykan of Trakya University in Turkey has made similar discoveries in the past. Baykan suggests that the renowned ancient doctor Galen, who lived during the 2nd century AD and resided nearby in Pergamon, may have practiced at Allianoi. Ancient records suggest Galen successfully performed surgeries on injured gladiators, and Baykan proposes that the operations might have taken place at this ancient medical center.

Patty Baker, a senior lecturer of classical and archaeological studies at the University of Kent, also highlighted the proximity of the medical facility to the bath. In the Roman world, bath buildings often housed medical tools as they were places where people sought healthcare. However, Baker cautions that while it is plausible a group of physicians worked at the site, it is not conclusive based on the current evidence.

The examination of these Roman-era medical instruments at Allianoi provides valuable insights into the early practice of group medicine. Further research and analysis will be needed to uncover more details about the medical center's operations and the extent of collaboration among the healthcare practitioners present at the site.

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