Matthew Hay

Matthew Hay was an expert in forensic medicine and champion of public health. He was the founding father of the Aberdeen Joint Hospitals Scheme, a world first in the organisation of hospital care and medical teaching. Initially appointed as Chair of Forensic Medicine at the University of Aberdeen, he also took on the role of Medical Officer of Health for Aberdeen in 1888.

Matthew brought scientific logic and organisation to many areas of public health including the care of mothers and children, and the treatment of tuberculosis. In 1900 he promoted the development of an integrated medical campus at Foresterhill, which has since grown to become one of the largest health campuses in Europe, serving the communities of Aberdeen and the North-East.

Matthew’s commitment to public health also embraced the improvement of housing conditions for the poorest in society. His innovative ideas were eventually adopted by Aberdeen Town Council in 1894 as part of the city’s housing improvement scheme.