Summary/Abstract: The development of medical services in Venice started in the mid 14th century and it was predominantly influenced by the outbreak of the plague (Black Death), after which the first health care regulations were introduced. Several decades on, the organization of the health care service was finalized. Regulations passed by the Senate in the mid 15th century were of major importance. Several decades later, a separate Magistrate (Magistrato alla Sanità) was set up to deal with public health care. This institution continued to operate in an almost unchanged form until the final fall of the Republic of Venice in 1797.
