Dartmouth–Hitchcock Medical Center

Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center Lebanon NH October 2015

DHART Eurocopter EC-135 in 2013

Image from page 271 of "The New England magazine" (1887) (14762191556)

Dartmouth–Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC) is a prominent hospital and medical research facility located in Lebanon, New Hampshire, United States. It serves as the flagship hospital of Dartmouth Health, formerly known as Dartmouth-Hitchcock Health, a nonprofit health care system. DHMC is closely affiliated with the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College, facilitating a significant integration of clinical practice, education, and research.

History

The origins of Dartmouth–Hitchcock Medical Center trace back to the founding of Mary Hitchcock Memorial Hospital in 1893, named in honor of Mary Maynard Hitchcock, the wife of Hiram Hitchcock. The hospital was initially established to provide medical services to the rural communities of New Hampshire. Over the years, it evolved and expanded its services and facilities.

In the late 20th century, the medical center moved to its current location in Lebanon, New Hampshire, to accommodate the growing needs of its patient population and to further its mission of integrating patient care with medical education and research. This move marked a significant milestone in the development of DHMC as a leading healthcare institution.

Facilities and Services

Dartmouth–Hitchcock Medical Center encompasses a wide range of medical services and specialties, including cardiology, oncology, neurology, and pediatrics, among others. The center is known for its state-of-the-art facilities, including a comprehensive cancer center, a children's hospital, and advanced surgical units.

One of the hallmarks of DHMC is its commitment to medical research. The center is involved in numerous clinical trials and research projects, many of which are conducted in collaboration with the Geisel School of Medicine. These efforts contribute to advancements in medical science and patient care.

Education and Training

As an academic medical center, DHMC plays a crucial role in the education and training of future healthcare professionals. Through its affiliation with the Geisel School of Medicine, the center provides medical students with clinical training opportunities across a variety of specialties. Additionally, DHMC offers residency and fellowship programs, which attract medical graduates from around the world.

Community Engagement

Dartmouth–Hitchcock Medical Center is deeply committed to serving the community. It offers a range of health education programs, community outreach initiatives, and preventive health services aimed at improving the well-being of the population it serves. The center's efforts in community health are an integral part of its mission to provide comprehensive care.

Challenges and Future Directions

Like many healthcare institutions, DHMC faces challenges such as managing the rising costs of healthcare, adapting to changes in healthcare policy, and meeting the needs of a diverse patient population. In response, the center is continually exploring innovative ways to enhance patient care, expand its research initiatives, and educate the next generation of healthcare professionals.

Looking ahead, Dartmouth–Hitchcock Medical Center aims to further its contributions to medical science, improve health outcomes for patients, and strengthen its role as a leader in healthcare education and community service.