“Is this where the drama was filmed?” some ask. Indeed parts of a popular medical drama were filmed right here at Chiba University Hospital. This isn’t just a set though. It is a fully functioning hospital. Chiba University Hospital plays a vital role in healthcare and medical research in the Chiba Prefecture.
The hospital’s story began long ago. In 1874 the Kyouritsu Hospital opened. It marked the start of modern medicine in this region. Over the years it transformed. It became the Chiba Prefectural Hospital in 1876. It then became affiliated with the Chiba Medical School in 1882.
The hospital moved to its current location in Inohana in 1890. It became the Chiba Medical College Hospital in 1922. In 1923 it was renamed Chiba University Hospital. A new building was completed in 1936. This building now serves as the main building for the Chiba University School of Medicine.
World War II brought destruction. Air raids in 1945 destroyed the old hospital building. Yet the spirit of the hospital endured. In 1949 Chiba University was established. The hospital was renamed Chiba University Hospital. A new hospital building was completed in 1978. It marked a new chapter. In 2007 a new ward was added. In 2008 a rooftop heliport opened. This improved emergency care.
Chiba University Hospital is more than just a place for treatment. It is a center for advanced medicine. The hospital has many departments. These include internal medicine surgery and pediatrics. They also include things like obstetrics gynecology and radiology. Each department offers specialized care. The hospital has 850 beds. 800 are for general patients. 45 are for psychiatric patients. 5 are for infectious diseases.
The staff is large and skilled. There are 889 doctors and dentists. There are 1147 nurses. 333 are medical technicians. 466 people work in other roles.
In 2017 the hospital became a Comprehensive Perinatal Medical Center. It is one of only three in Chiba Prefecture. This highlights its commitment to maternal and child health.
Chiba University Hospital is committed to robotic surgery. It also pioneers treatments for joint disorders. If you look closely you might recognize the entrance from a TV show. More importantly remember the hospital’s mission. It provides advanced medical care education and research for the people of Chiba.