Mercy Hospital and Medical Center, Chicago

Characteristics and services

As a teaching hospital, Mercy provides clinical training for medical and allied-health learners while offering core specialties typical of a general hospital: internal medicine, surgery, obstetrics and gynecology, emergency medicine and oncology. It is recognized in Illinois for its women’s cancer services and comprehensive care programs that combine diagnostics, treatment and support for patients and families.

History and development

Founded in 1852, Mercy is among the earliest hospitals established in Chicago. In 1859 it became the first Catholic hospital to form an affiliation with a medical school—Lind Medical School—and to implement a graded curriculum for student instruction. Those early steps helped set a model for formal clinical instruction at faith-based hospitals in the region.

Community role and notable events

Throughout its history Mercy has played a significant community role. When Michael Reese Hospital and Medical Center closed in 2008, Mercy accepted many of its patients and took over several ambulance routes, expanding emergency coverage for nearby neighborhoods. The hospital campus has also been involved in local real estate transactions, including the sale of land to the north of the facility in 2008. Mercy is also known locally as the birthplace for members of prominent Chicago families.

Recognition, rankings and incidents

Mercy has appeared in regional hospital rankings; for example, a 2012 U.S. News & World Report listing placed it among hospitals in Illinois and the Chicago metropolitan area U.S. News profile. The hospital and its vicinity have also been the scene of newsworthy incidents: in November 2018 multiple people were shot near the facility, an event covered by local media and public safety reports news coverage.

Quick facts and distinctions

• Founded: 1852
• Beds: 292
• Type: Catholic, teaching, general medical and surgical
• Historic notes: First chartered hospital in Chicago; first Catholic hospital to affiliate with a medical school (Lind Medical School) and to adopt a graded curriculum.

Mercy Hospital and Medical Center continues to function as a significant provider of medical services on Chicago’s Near South Side. Its long history, teaching role and community responsibilities make it an important part of the city's health-care landscape.