Scottish Women's Hospital at Royaumont

Scottish Women's Hospital at Royaumont was a pioneering medical facility established during World War I by the Scottish Women's Hospitals for Foreign Service (SWH). Founded by Dr. Elsie Inglis, one of Scotland's most notable surgeons and suffragettes, the hospital was located in the Abbey of Royaumont, France. It became renowned for its all-female staff and its significant contributions to wartime medical care.

History

In 1914, as Europe plunged into war, Dr. Elsie Inglis proposed the creation of all-female medical units to serve in the conflict. Despite facing initial resistance, Inglis and her colleagues established the Scottish Women's Hospitals for Foreign Service. The Royaumont Abbey, a historic building located approximately 30 kilometers north of Paris, was transformed into a fully operational hospital by December 1914.

Operations

The Scottish Women's Hospital at Royaumont was notable for being staffed entirely by women - from surgeons to orderlies. At a time when female doctors and nurses were often sidelined, the hospital provided an opportunity for women in the medical profession to demonstrate their skills and dedication. The facility treated thousands of soldiers from the Allied Powers, offering surgical care, X-ray services, and rehabilitation.

Legacy

The work of the Scottish Women's Hospital at Royaumont left a lasting legacy. It challenged gender norms of the time, proving women's capabilities in medicine and surgery. The hospital's success helped pave the way for greater acceptance of women in the medical profession. Today, the story of Royaumont is celebrated as a key chapter in the history of women's contributions to healthcare and the war effort.

See Also

• Elsie Inglis
• World War I
• Women in medicine