In the early 20th century, residents of Salem County, NJ generally gave birth, endured illnesses and even surgery at home. For the few requiring inpatient care, a trip to distant hospitals in Camden, Bridgeton or Wilmington, DE was required. But in the first two decades of the twentieth century medicine was advancing rapidly and changes in delivery methods were needed.
For an article in the spring issue of the quarterly newsletter of the Salem County Historical Society I examined the origins of the community hospital and the dynamics that stirred the community to establish the medical facility.
After the great influenza epidemic of 1918 swept across the nation, the need for around-the-clock institutional care was particularly acute in Salem County. The medical professionals of Salem County did what they could but the absence of a permanent place where the sick could be treated severely hampered care. As the epidemic subsided Salem County got to work, seeking to establish an institutions were professional care was available around-the-clock. Thus in 1919, the Salem County Memorial Hospital opened.
The deadly pandemic had brought a lasting improvement to this rural part of South Jersey. Following the devastation that shattered so many lives, Salem County established a permanent hospital to better prepare the community for future public health emergencies and provide efficient inpatient care in the growing region, while dedicating it to the community’s World War I heroes.
See the full article in the spring quarter of the Salem County Historical Society
For More on Salem County also see
The Salem County Executioner and His Grim Task