Hospital General de Agudos Doctor Enrique Tornú

In 1904, a beacon of hope arose amidst the shadows of tuberculosis – the Sanatorio Dr. Enrique Tornú. This institution, now known as Hospital General de Agudos Doctor Enrique Tornú, stands as a testament to a century of medical progress and community care. Hospital General de Agudos Doctor Enrique Tornú originally specialized in treating tuberculosis patients. It was the first hospital in Buenos Aires to offer inpatient care for this devastating disease. The sanatorium opened its doors on October 8, 1904, quickly becoming a vital resource for the city. Initially, it housed two pavilions with 100 beds each, specifically designed for men. The pavilions were ingeniously connected by a central area and covered passageways. A separate building served administrative functions and other essential services. The renowned engineer Carlos Thays designed a tranquil park within the hospital grounds. This park offered a serene environment to aid in the recovery of tuberculosis patients, showcasing the belief in the healing power of nature. Over the years, Hospital General de Agudos Doctor Enrique Tornú expanded its services to meet the evolving health needs of the community. In 1912, two new pavilions were built to accommodate female patients, bringing the total bed capacity to 224. A groundbreaking Maternity and Infant Pavilion for tuberculosis patients followed in 1925, a pioneering facility in Argentina. Further renovations in 1926 saw the pavilions transformed into two-story structures, along with the addition of the “Provincias” building. The hospital’s commitment to research led to the establishment of the Centro de Investigaciones Tisiológicas (CITI) in 1934, which today houses the Instituto de Investigaciones Médicas “Alfredo Lanari”. From the mid-1980s, Hospital General de Agudos Doctor Enrique Tornú transitioned into a multi-specialty hospital, serving a broader range of medical needs. Through its evolution, the hospital has remained a symbol of resilience, adaptation, and unwavering dedication to the health and well-being of the people of Buenos Aires.