Pennsylvania Hospital

Pennsylvania Hospital is a historic hospital located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It was founded on May 11, 1751, by Benjamin Franklin and Dr. Thomas Bond and is considered the oldest hospital in the United States. The hospital was originally established to care for the sick, poor, and insane who were wandering the streets of Philadelphia. Over the centuries, Pennsylvania Hospital has grown and evolved, but its core mission of providing high-quality medical care to all who need it has remained unchanged.

History

The idea for Pennsylvania Hospital was conceived by Dr. Thomas Bond, who was deeply concerned about the lack of hospital care for the poor in Philadelphia. He enlisted the help of Benjamin Franklin, and together they garnered support from the community. The Pennsylvania Assembly granted them a charter in 1751, making it the first hospital in the original thirteen American colonies. The hospital's original building, now known as the Pine Building, was completed in 1756 and is a designated National Historic Landmark.

Throughout its history, Pennsylvania Hospital has been at the forefront of medical innovation. It was the first hospital to create a surgical amphitheater (1804) and a maternity ward (1803). The hospital also established one of the first medical libraries in the country in 1762.

Facilities and Services

Today, Pennsylvania Hospital is part of the Penn Medicine network and offers a wide range of medical services, including cardiology, neurosurgery, obstetrics, and gynecology, among others. It is also a teaching hospital, affiliated with the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. The hospital is known for its comprehensive stroke care program and has been designated as a Primary Stroke Center.

Architecture

The hospital's original building, the Pine Building, is an excellent example of Colonial and Federal architecture. It has been meticulously preserved and continues to be used for administrative purposes. The hospital campus also includes several modern buildings where patient care is provided.

Philanthropy and Community Outreach

Pennsylvania Hospital has a long tradition of philanthropy and community service. It provides a significant amount of charity care each year and operates several outreach programs aimed at improving the health and well-being of the Philadelphia community.

Notable Achievements

- First hospital in the United States. - Establishment of one of the first medical libraries. - Creation of the first surgical amphitheater in the U.S. - Designation as a National Historic Landmark.

Future Directions

Pennsylvania Hospital continues to expand and innovate in the field of medicine. It is committed to advancing medical research, improving patient care, and serving the needs of the Philadelphia community.