The history of the “Saint Stephen” Pneumoftiziology Hospital in Bucharest is closely linked to the transformations of the Romanian medical system in the 20th century, reflecting both the evolution of respiratory medicine and the social and political changes of the era. Its origins are found in the renowned “Casa Diaconeselor” Sanatorium, a medical institution appreciated during the interwar period, dedicated to treating pulmonary conditions. Located in a central area of the Capital, this sanatorium represented, at the time, one of the most modern units intended for patients with respiratory diseases.

From “Casa Diaconeselor” to the beginnings of a modern hospital

In the year 1948, once the medical institutions were nationalized, “Casa Diaconeselor” passed into state ownership through a decree issued on November 3. It then received the initial name of the Pneumoftiziology Hospital, marking a new stage in the organization of medical services dedicated to patients with tuberculosis and other lung conditions. This restructuring was in line with the general direction of the state to consolidate a unified healthcare system, accessible to all.

An important moment in the history of the hospital is the year 1963, when the unit was officially reorganized under the name “Saint Stephen” Pneumoftiziology Hospital. The actual establishment was made according to Decision no. 41 of January 8, 1963, issued by the Popular Council of the Capital, based on a provision of the Council of Ministers from November 20, 1962. This stage marked the beginning of the institution’s development in its modern form, with specialized wards and a complex circuit of patient care.

Personalities treated here: the case of Garabet Ibrăileanu

A remarkable aspect of the history of this hospital is its connection with important personalities of Romanian culture. Among them is the great writer, essayist, and literary critic Garabet Ibrăileanu, one of the most important intellectuals of the early 20th century. In the year 1934, Ibrăileanu was admitted and treated in the “Casa Diaconeselor” Sanatorium, in a delicate moment of his life, marked by severe health problems.

This information confirms the prestige of the sanatorium even during the interwar period, showing that the institution was considered a reference medical unit for respiratory diseases. The presence of Ibrăileanu here not only completes an important episode in the writer’s biography but also illustrates the advanced level of medical care provided. Specialized doctors, treatment conditions adapted to the time, and a rigorous professional environment made the sanatorium sought after by both ordinary patients and cultural personalities.

The development of the hospital in the contemporary period

From the reorganization in 1963 until today, the “Saint Stephen” Pneumoftiziology Hospital has undergone numerous transformations. Over the years, the unit has been located in several places, constantly adapting to medical requirements and patient needs. In the year 2002, the hospital received the name it bears today, following the administrative unification of several medical units.

Another significant moment is the year 2010, when the hospital came under the subordination of the Administration of Hospitals and Medical Services Bucharest (ASSMB). This change allowed the modernization of medical activity, the access to new programs, and the implementation of higher standards regarding the quality of medical care. ASSMB supported the development of infrastructure and the acquisition of modern equipment, essential in the diagnosis and treatment of respiratory conditions, which, in the current era, require advanced technology.

Today, the hospital operates at Ștefan cel Mare Road no. 11, Sector 2, in a complex made up of two pavilion buildings – one administrative and one intended for hospitalization. The current structure includes 120 beds for continuous hospitalization and 3 beds for day hospitalization, which allows the management of a significant number of patients efficiently and in a coordinated manner.

Modern medical services for patients with respiratory conditions

The “Saint Stephen” Pneumoftiziology Hospital has distinguished itself over time through the diversity and complexity of the medical services provided. The unit is specialized in pneumology and pneumoftiziology, having as a fundamental principle the orientation toward the patient and the needs of the community.

Among the essential services are pneumology consultations, performed by doctors with experience in identifying and treating lung diseases. Patients also benefit from aerosol therapy, an effective method in treating chronic respiratory conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma.

The hospital is equipped to provide emergency medical assistance for respiratory insufficiencies, intervening quickly in severe cases that require stabilization and immediate therapy. Another major service is bronchoscopy, an investigation used for diagnosing broncho-pulmonary diseases. Modern equipment allows the obtaining of precise results, contributing to the rapid establishment of the diagnosis and the application of appropriate treatment.

To ensure continuity of care for patients diagnosed with tuberculosis, the hospital coordinates the activity of three TB dispensaries. Two of these, for Sectors 1 and 2, operate on Salcâmilor Street no. 21–23, and the third, for Sector 3, is located on Calea Dudești no. 104–124. These centers contribute to the continuous monitoring of patients and to the prevention of the spread of the disease.

The hospital’s mission: quality, respect, and responsibility

The fundamental principle that guides the activity of the “Saint Stephen” Pneumoftiziology Hospital is the orientation toward the patient. The unit aims to meet the highest quality standards, respecting the legislation in force and the rights of those who enter its doors.

Being an important provider of medical services in the pulmonary field, the hospital assumes responsibility for responding with professionalism to complex medical situations. Respiratory conditions represent a sensitive and constantly evolving field, and their approach requires a well-prepared team that keeps pace with scientific developments and modern technology. Within the hospital, doctors, nurses, and auxiliary staff work with dedication, contributing to the proper functioning of daily activities and maintaining a high level of services provided.

A landmark of Bucharest and an institution in continuous transformation

Looking back, the evolution of the “Saint Stephen” Pneumoftiziology Hospital reflects both the history of the Romanian medical system and the constant desire for adaptation and modernization. From a respected sanatorium in the interwar period to a modern hospital equipped with high-performance technology, the unit has managed to maintain its essential role in treating respiratory conditions.

Today, the hospital represents a medical landmark for the inhabitants of the Capital and a center dedicated to respiratory health. And the fact that a name as important as Garabet Ibrăileanu was treated here adds symbolic value to its history, proving that tradition and excellence can go hand in hand.

Thus, the “Saint Stephen” Hospital remains an example of continuity, professionalism, and respect for the patient—an institution that, although it has changed its form and status over decades, has remained faithful to its fundamental mission: protecting the respiratory health of the community.

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