Lincoln Hospital, strategically located in the Bronx, stands as a cornerstone of healthcare, providing a comprehensive range of medical services to the community. Situated notably near 149th Street, this full-service acute care hospital is not only a regional healthcare provider but also recognized nationally as a premier trauma center. With a commitment to excellence in patient care and medical education, Lincoln Hospital plays a vital role in the health and well-being of New Yorkers.
Accessibility is a key feature of Lincoln Hospital. Easily reachable by both public transportation and private vehicles, the hospital ensures that patients can access its facilities without difficulty. For those driving, Lincoln Hospital offers its own indoor parking, providing a secure and affordable parking solution, adding to the convenience for visitors and patients alike.
Beyond its accessibility and comprehensive services, Lincoln Hospital distinguishes itself as a leading teaching institution. It operates accredited Residency Programs across all major medical specialties and sub-specialties. This dedication to medical education is supported by a full suite of ancillary services, designed to enhance patient care and enrich the learning experience for residents.
Lincoln Hospital’s commitment to academic excellence is further solidified through its partnership with PAGNY (Physician Affiliate Group of New York). This collaboration has fostered an academic affiliation with prestigious institutions such as New York Medical College and Weill Cornell University Medical College. This affiliation brings significant benefits, including faculty appointments at Weill Cornell for Lincoln physicians, clinical rotations for Cornell medical students at Lincoln, and access to academic resources at Cornell University Medical College for Lincoln’s faculty and residents.
Looking back at its rich history, Lincoln Hospital’s origins trace back to 1839. Initially established as the “Home for the relief of aged indigent black persons” by philanthropists including John Jay, its mission evolved to prioritize hospital functions. By 1882, it was renamed “The colored home and hospital,” reflecting its evolving role.
In 1895, after outgrowing its Manhattan locations, the hospital’s trustees acquired land in the developing South Bronx, near the intersection of 141st Street and Southern Boulevard. A new, state-of-the-art hospital was inaugurated on April 29, 1899. While initially founded with a connection to supporting the black community, Lincoln Hospital broadened its mission to serve all individuals regardless of race or creed, becoming a general hospital for the wider population. The name was later simplified to Lincoln Hospital, honoring President Abraham Lincoln.
The growing demands of the South Bronx and shifts in philanthropic funding led to a significant change in 1925 when the board of trustees sold Lincoln Hospital to New York City’s Department of Public Welfare. This transition marked a new chapter in its public service. In 1976, a modern, expanded facility was opened approximately two miles from the original “old Lincoln” site, representing a substantial $220 million investment in healthcare infrastructure for the community.
Throughout its extensive 180-plus year history, Lincoln Hospital has been a site of remarkable progress in clinical care and medical education. Key milestones include:
- Dr. Ramon Castroviejo’s pioneering work in corneal transplants, establishing him as a leading figure in ophthalmology.
- Dr. Jacob Geiger’s establishment of the nation’s first blood transfusion facility, a critical advancement in medical treatment.
- Dr. Emmanuel Goldberger’s development of Vector cardiography during his tenure at the hospital, contributing significantly to cardiology.
- Dr. Shepard Shapiro’s introduction of Warfarin into clinical practice, revolutionizing anticoagulation therapy.
- The establishment of the first training school for black nurses in the United States at Lincoln in 1839, a landmark achievement in nursing education and racial equality in healthcare.
Lincoln Hospital at 149th Street continues to build upon this legacy, serving as a vital healthcare resource and a beacon of medical innovation and community service in the Bronx.
