Northwestern Memorial Hospital is more than just a hospital. It’s the heart of one of the most powerful medical systems in the U.S., where modern technology meets cutting-edge research. It serves as the flagship institution of Northwestern Medicine—a network that unites the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and numerous specialized clinics across the region. Learn more about healthcare in old Chicago. More on ichicago.
Center of Innovation and Scientific Discovery
The modern Northwestern Memorial Hospital was formed in 1972 through the merger of two hospitals: Passavant Memorial Hospital (founded in 1865) and Wesley Memorial Hospital (founded in 1888). The history of both institutions is linked to charitable missions and the Methodist church. In the 21st century, it stands as one of the leading research hospitals in the U.S., constantly redefining the possibilities of modern medicine. Its operations are closely tied to the Feinberg School of Medicine, part of Northwestern University. Thanks to this unique synergy of clinical practice and academic science, the hospital has transformed into a national center for medical innovation.
Special attention is given to research in oncology, cardiology, neurosurgery, and transplantology. Multidisciplinary teams, combining doctors, bioengineers, geneticists, clinical researchers, and medical ethics specialists, work in these areas.
A distinct focus is the development of precision medicine, which involves an individualized approach to each patient based on their genetic profile, lifestyle, and environment. Northwestern Memorial is also part of the network of National Cancer Institute-designated Cancer Centers, confirming its role as one of the country’s leading oncology research centers.
Structure and Departments
Northwestern Memorial Hospital is an extensive multidisciplinary medical center, impressive not only in scale but also in the deep specialization of each of its departments. Thanks to a well-thought-out structure, the hospital covers a full spectrum of medical services—from primary diagnosis to highly specialized surgical interventions and rehabilitation.
Prentice Women’s Hospital is one of the most modern women’s health centers in the U.S. It provides care in reproductive medicine, prenatal care, neonatology, gynecological oncology, and minimally invasive surgery. The hospital has its own Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), allowing it to provide care even in the most complex cases.
Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute is one of the most renowned cardiology centers in the U.S. Thousands of procedures are performed here annually, including coronary artery bypass grafting, artificial valve implantation, and treatment for aneurysms, arrhythmias, and heart failure. The center is a leader in micro-invasive cardiac surgery.
Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center – The oncology center holds NCI-designated status, indicating its adherence to the highest standards of scientific research, clinical care, and education in oncology. The center specializes in treating a wide variety of cancers—from breast cancer to rare brain tumors. Patients have access to the latest treatment methods, including immunotherapy, targeted therapy, bone marrow transplantation, and genetic profiling of tumors.
Stone Institute of Psychiatry – A center for psychiatry and psychological assistance, treating depression, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, PTSD, addictions, and other conditions. It offers several outpatient and inpatient therapy programs, including crisis intervention, group sessions, individual psychotherapy, and pharmacotherapy. The robust infrastructure of the institution allows not only for the treatment of the most complex cases but also ensures a continuous cycle of medical care—from prevention to postoperative care.
Patient-Centered Approach
At the heart of this system is respect for individual needs, informed decision-making, transparency, and convenience for every patient.
The hospital offers mental health support programs for patients facing emotional stress related to diagnosis or treatment. These include:
- psychotherapy consultations;
- support groups;
- resources for family members and caregivers;
- access to spiritual support—regardless of denomination.
Here, every patient is an active participant in their treatment process. They are informed about all stages of diagnosis, given access to electronic medical records, and have risks and alternatives explained. Patients can independently choose appointment times (via a mobile app), consult with multiple specialists simultaneously (multidisciplinary team), and receive services directly on the hospital campus—from laboratory tests to rehabilitation.
National Recognition
Northwestern Memorial Hospital is deservedly considered one of the most prestigious hospitals in the U.S. Each year, it is included in the Top 10 Hospitals in the U.S. list by the authoritative media ranking U.S. News & World Report. In 2024, the institution ranked:
- 9th among all medical institutions nationwide;
- 1st in the state of Illinois;
- leading positions in eight specialties, including: cardiology and heart surgery, oncology, orthopedics, neurosurgery and brain disease treatment, endocrinology, geriatrics, gastroenterology and GI surgery, pulmonology and respiratory disease treatment.
The hospital also receives numerous industry awards, including:
- included in “America’s Best Hospitals Honor Roll” by U.S. News & World Report;
- awarded the Vizient Quality Leadership Award multiple times;
- Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade — A for the highest level of patient safety.
In 2018, it received the highest accreditation from The Joint Commission, a leading accrediting body in the U.S.
The Team
The true strength of Northwestern Memorial Hospital lies in its people. Over 1,600 highly qualified physicians work here, ensuring the seamless operation of one of the largest medical complexes in the U.S. Many of them are also faculty members at the Feinberg School of Medicine, which allows for continuous updating of clinical practice with the latest scientific advancements, the implementation of training programs for medical interns and residents directly in real hospital settings, and the fostering of an academic culture of critical thinking, research curiosity, and team collaboration.
The team includes world-class specialists—recipients of scientific awards, authors of textbooks, and experts in professional medical associations. Many participate in the development of national clinical protocols and international guidelines. Additionally, the hospital invests in staff professional development, providing regular training, access to simulation laboratories, participation in conferences, and leadership programs for medical managers.