Bellevue Hospital, the Oldest Public Health Center in the United States of America

Abstract

Bellevue Hospital is known as the oldest public hospital in the United States of America. Although its historical beginnings date back to the 1600s, it was officially founded on the second floor of the New York City Almshouse in 1736, 40 years before the American Revolution. It has since been at the forefront of administering comprehensive patient care and medical education. Moreover, Bellevue has built a reputation for serving homeless, immigrant, or minority populations while also delivering care to United States presidents. This tradition of treating patients regardless of socioeconomic or racial status has made Bellevue one of the most historically renowned hospitals in the country. Today, Bellevue hospital represents a significant branch of the New York City health system and a public health leader. Moreover, it has housed pioneers in neurosurgery, including the father of functional ultrasonic neurosurgery, Dr. Russel Meyers, as well as Dr. Dorothy Klenke Nash, the only active female neurosurgeon in the United States from 1928 to 1960. Herein, we will explore Bellevue's historical and medical significance, from its humble beginnings to its current status as a public health leader.

Keywords: Bellevue; History; Hospital; New York.