SINGAPORE - Some 200 years of the country's medical history has been captured in a roving exhibition.

Housed in a truck, the exhibition focuses on the evolution of healthcare since the 1800s and chronicles key events such as the establishment of Singapore General Hospital in 1821 and the birth of the country's first test-tube baby at Kandang Kerbau Hospital in 1983.

Launched at South View Primary School on Monday, it will travel to 20 schools, public hospitals and other community venues till March.

The mobile truck exhibition is a nod to the mobile dispensaries rolled out by the colonial government in the 1950s.

Health Minister Gan Kim Yong, who officiated the event, said it is important to take stock of "how we got to where we are today". He added that pioneers in the industry should also be recognised.

He said: "I am pleased to note that the exhibition showcases the contributions of our pioneer healthcare institutions, personalities and campaigns towards the building of a healthy nation."

Artefacts on display include a wooden monoaural stethoscope used by Western medical doctors in 1911.

The exhibition was put together by the National Heritage Board and the Museum Roundtable.