Howard University Hospital: A Legacy of Healthcare and Community Service in Washington, D.C.
Howard University Hospital (HUH), a Level 1 Trauma Center, stands as a major healthcare institution in Washington, D.C., with a rich history of serving the community for over 145 years. From its origins as Freedmen's Hospital to its current role as a teaching hospital affiliated with Howard University, HUH has been committed to providing comprehensive healthcare services, advancing medical research, and addressing the needs of the African American community in the Washington metropolitan area.
Historical Overview: From Freedmen's Hospital to Howard University Hospital
The hospital's roots trace back to 1862, when it was first established as Freedmen's Hospital and Asylum on the grounds of Camp Barker, at 13th and R Streets, NW. Its initial mission was to care for freed, disabled, and aged blacks. In 1863, the hospital was placed under the charge of Dr. In 1881, Charles Burleigh Purvis was appointed by President Chester Arthur to Surgeon-in-Charge at the Freedmen's hospital. Early in the 20th century, Congress authorized the construction of a new hospital. It was completed in 1909 on Bryant Street, NW, between 4th and 6th Streets. The Public Health Service managed the facility.
In 1967, Freedmen's Hospital was transferred to Howard University and continued to operate as a hospital until 1975. The original Freedmen's building on Bryant Street still stands and now houses Howard University's John H. Johnson School of Communications.
In February 2020, Howard University Hospital and Adventist HealthCare entered into an agreement for Adventist HealthCare to manage the hospital for three years.
Comprehensive Healthcare Services
Howard University Hospital offers a wide range of primary, secondary, and tertiary healthcare services. Whether patients require a primary care provider or a specialist, they can find a caring physician at HUH. The hospital's doctors are at the forefront of medical research, ensuring that patients benefit from the latest advances in treatment.
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Patients can schedule in-person visits or opt for video or phone consultations with doctors at Howard University Hospital. The hospital strives to provide the same level of care regardless of whether patients are in the physician's office or at home.
Specialized Services and Programs
HUH provides specialized services, including:
- Endocrinology
- Ophthalmology
- Podiatry
- Diabetes education
- Pharmacy services
- Nutrition services
The hospital also houses the Diabetes Treatment Center, a facility that addresses the medical needs of diabetic patients through a multidisciplinary approach to patient care. The Minority Organ Tissue Transplant Education Program (MOTTEP), founded by transplant surgeon Clive O. Callender, is headquartered at Howard University Hospital.
Community Engagement
HUH is actively involved in the local community, with physicians and other health professionals participating in weekly activities and services. These include medical presentations, free health screenings, educational workshops, and health fairs.
A Teaching Hospital
Howard University Hospital is the nation's only teaching hospital on the campus of a historically black university. It provides medical students with opportunities to observe and participate in clinical and research work alongside professionals.
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Trauma Care Leadership
HUH's trauma leadership includes Dr. Edward E. Cornwell III.
Visiting Howard University Hospital
Howard University Hospital is located at 2041 Georgia Avenue, N.W., and is easily accessible by public transportation. The Shaw/Howard University stop on the Green line is the nearest Metro rail station. Parking is available in front of the hospital and ambulatory care center (Towers Building), and visitors are advised to keep their parking ticket with them.
The hospital provides robes, gowns, slippers, and a kit with essential items like a toothbrush, toothpaste, and tissues. Patients are advised to bring only essential items and to send valuables home to protect against theft or loss. If this is not possible, valuables can be deposited with an admissions representative or with the assistance of a nurse. The hospital does not assume responsibility for the theft or loss of property.
Financial Information
Patients should familiarize themselves with the terms of their insurance policy, as their insurance company may require pre-authorization for services. After discharge, patients will receive a hospital bill covering all services received during their stay. The hospital submits bills to insurance companies as a courtesy and will make every effort to expedite claims. Patients may also receive separate bills from their personal physician and other physicians who provided consultation or direct services, such as an anesthesiologist, cardiologist, neurologist, pathologist, or radiologist. The Patient Accounts Office is located on the first floor, near the main entrance, and accepts payments in the form of cash, personal checks, traveler's checks, money orders, and most credit cards.
Pre-Admission Testing
In order to conduct a preliminary evaluation, a physician may request tests before a patient is admitted to the hospital. If tests are required, an Admissions Office representative will call to arrange for a pre-admission appointment. This is an opportunity to present or make special requests pertaining to the hospital stay.
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