History of Singapore General Hospital

Singapore General Hospital Facade

The Singapore General Hospital (SGH) is the largest and oldest hospital in Singapore. Established in 1821, it has played a pivotal role in the development of healthcare in the region. The hospital is located at Outram Road, within the Outram district.

Early Years

The origins of SGH can be traced back to a small medical facility set up by the British East India Company to serve the needs of the local population and the British troops stationed in Singapore. The first hospital was a wooden shed located near the Singapore River. In 1821, the hospital was moved to Pearl's Hill, and in 1827, it was relocated to its current site at Outram Road.

Development and Expansion

Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, SGH underwent several expansions and upgrades to accommodate the growing population and advancements in medical science. In 1926, a new hospital complex was built, featuring modern facilities and increased capacity. This marked a significant milestone in the hospital's history, as it transitioned from a colonial medical outpost to a leading healthcare institution.

World War II

During World War II, SGH played a crucial role in providing medical care to both military personnel and civilians. The hospital was heavily bombed during the Battle of Singapore, but continued to operate under challenging conditions. After the war, SGH was instrumental in addressing the healthcare needs of a war-torn population and rebuilding the medical infrastructure.

Post-Independence Era

Following Singapore's independence in 1965, SGH continued to expand and modernize. The hospital introduced various specialized medical services and established itself as a center for medical education and research. In 1981, SGH became part of the National University of Singapore's medical faculty, further enhancing its role in training future generations of healthcare professionals.

Recent Developments

In recent years, SGH has continued to evolve, incorporating state-of-the-art technology and facilities. The hospital is part of the Singapore Health Services (SingHealth) cluster, which includes several other leading healthcare institutions. SGH remains at the forefront of medical innovation and patient care, serving as a model for healthcare systems in the region.

Related Pages

• Healthcare in Singapore
• National University of Singapore
• Singapore Health Services
• Outram, Singapore
• Battle of Singapore