Tuberculosis Hospital of Pittsburgh

A historical hospital in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Tuberculosis Hospital of Pittsburgh was a medical facility located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, dedicated to the treatment of patients with tuberculosis.

History

The Tuberculosis Hospital of Pittsburgh was established in the early 20th century, during a time when tuberculosis was a major public health concern. The hospital was part of a broader movement to create specialized institutions for the treatment of tuberculosis, which was then known as "consumption."

The hospital was designed to provide patients with a combination of medical treatment and rest, which was believed to be the most effective way to combat the disease. Patients were often housed in open-air wards, as fresh air and sunlight were considered crucial elements of the treatment regimen.

Architecture

The architecture of the Tuberculosis Hospital of Pittsburgh reflected the prevailing medical theories of the time. The building featured large windows and verandas to maximize exposure to sunlight and fresh air. The design was intended to create a therapeutic environment that would aid in the recovery of patients.

Decline and Closure

With the advent of antibiotics in the mid-20th century, the incidence of tuberculosis began to decline significantly. As a result, the need for specialized tuberculosis hospitals diminished. The Tuberculosis Hospital of Pittsburgh eventually closed as the disease became more manageable through outpatient treatment and public health measures.

Legacy

The Tuberculosis Hospital of Pittsburgh is remembered as part of the history of public health and the fight against infectious diseases. It serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by earlier generations in combating tuberculosis and the progress made in medical science.

Related pages

• Tuberculosis
• History of Pittsburgh
• Public health

The Tuberculosis Hospital of Pittsburgh

•