The invisible light in Lancashire: Arthur Rayner and the establishment of X-ray services in Preston during the early 20th century

Background: It could be suggested, that when discussing the history of radiology in the United Kingdom, research tends to focus on the X-ray martyrs and London based hospitals. However, in the North-West of the country, Dr Arthur Rayner was the leading radiologist and x-ray technician at Preston Royal Infirmary, which opened in 1929. Prior to the establishment of a hospital in Preston, Arthur Rayner practiced medicine from his private residence, complete with an x-ray service. Passionate about the development of radiology, and ensuring such services were available to all, Arthur Rayner was a well-respected Doctor in Preston, who worked past retirement. After the development of the National Health Service in 1948, home based doctors and community medicine shifted to hospital-based care, and patients no longer paid for services such as those offered by Arthur Rayner.

Purpose:
- To celebrate and recognise the life and career of Dr Arthur Rayner.
- To consider how the development of services such as radiology, impacted communities in poorer regions of the country.
- To reflect on the journey back to community-based healthcare, 78 years after the introduction of the National Health Service.

Summary of Content: This submission focusses on Arthur Rayner’s life and career, exploring his passion for radiology and making healthcare accessible for all. This submission also explores the current shift to community-based diagnostics, which are reflective of healthcare during Arthur Rayner’s life and career. Lastly, this submission aims to shine a light on how radiology services were developed elsewhere in the country, outside of London.