“What would it take to build a hospital open to everyone?” That question fueled the creation of Sir Mortimer B. Davis Jewish General Hospital. This Montreal institution stands as a testament to inclusivity. It welcomes patients regardless of background.
The Sir Mortimer B. Davis Jewish General Hospital’s story began in response to discrimination. Anti-Semitism led to a doctor’s strike at another hospital. The Jewish community responded by founding their own hospital in 1934. It would be open to all.
Sir Mortimer B. Davis left his estate to build this hospital. His vision was a Jewish public hospital bearing his name. In 1978 the hospital was officially renamed the Sir Mortimer B. Davis Jewish General Hospital. This recognized his generous bequest.
The Sir Mortimer B. Davis Jewish General Hospital is more than just a hospital. It is a teaching hospital affiliated with McGill University. It has 637 beds. That’s one of the highest counts in Canada. In 2019 Newsweek ranked the hospital fourth in Canada. It was first in Quebec.
The Sir Mortimer B. Davis Jewish General Hospital also has a strong research focus. The Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research was founded in 1969. It is a major biomedical research institute. Researchers have made breakthroughs in areas like HIV AIDS. They also study aging cancer and psychosocial science.
The Sir Mortimer B. Davis Jewish General Hospital has expanded over the years. Pavilion A was enlarged in 1950. Pavilions C and D followed in 1953. More recently Pavilions E and K were added in 2005 and 2014. A new pavilion opened in 2016 as part of a major project.
The Sir Mortimer B. Davis Jewish General Hospital has achieved several medical firsts. In 1974 it was among the first Canadian hospitals to open a colorectal surgery division. It was also a pioneer in patient relations. In 1973 it appointed an ombudsman.
The Sir Mortimer B. Davis Jewish General Hospital has a rich history of training. In 1971 it began training nurses and technicians. The JGH School of Nursing closed in 1972. This was due to changes in provincial jurisdiction.
From humble beginnings the Sir Mortimer B. Davis Jewish General Hospital has become a world class institution. It provides service teaching research and innovation. It is a vital part of Montreal’s healthcare landscape. It continues to evolve to meet the needs of its diverse community.