Final answer:
The statement is true; healthcare institutions over a century ago were largely charitable entities run by churches and social organizations, focusing on communal welfare rather than following a business model. It is true.
Step-by-step explanation:
The assertion that the healthcare institutions of more than a century ago were mostly charitable organizations operated by churches or social welfare groups, and no thought was given to operating them like businesses is largely true.
This era of healthcare was characterized by institutions struggling with funding, as seen with the Freedmen's Bureau hospitals, which provided care to thousands but grappled with financial limitations, leading to difficulties in hiring, poor building conditions, and eventual closures of most facilities. Moreover, Black hospitals faced severe financial constraints due to high poverty rates and a lack of government aid, which forced reliance on donations and fundraising, hindered their expansion, and caused continuous issues, including with licensing inspections.
Private charities, churches, and social organizations often stepped in to provide help amidst government inability to cope with public health demands, as evidenced by initiatives like the Settlement Houses and the role of the Salvation Army and the YMCA in providing community services. These healthcare institutions emphasized the social gospel movement and aimed for communal betterment rather than business profit.