Monday, February 16, 2026

Catholic Hospitals 2-16-26

Around 1960, the number of Catholic hospitals in the United States reached its peak, with approximately 800 to 868 hospitals. 

Peak Numbers: Data from around 1960 indicates that religious orders operated nearly 800-900 hospitals during this period.

Specific 1960-1961 Reports: A 1961 report noted 852 to 868 Catholic hospitals in the U.S..

Historical Context: Between 1840 and 1960, Catholic religious orders founded more than 1,000 hospitals in the United States.

Patients Served: In 1960, these institutions recorded nearly five million patient admissions, with about 56% of those patients being non-Catholic. 

Following the 1960s, the number of Catholic hospitals began a slow decline, with about 600-639 reported in recent years. 

Around 800 Catholic hospitals were operating in the United States in 1960. 

This period is often cited as the peak for Catholic healthcare facilities in the U.S. before a gradual decline caused by mergers and secularization. Historical records from that era highlight the significant role these institutions played in the national healthcare system: 

Hospital Capacity: These 800 hospitals provided approximately 137,000 beds for patients.

Patient Admissions: In 1960, Catholic hospitals reported nearly 5 million admissions, with approximately 56% of those patients being non-Catholic.

Workforce: By 1965, the ministry was supported by over 13,600 religious sisters serving across these facilities.

Total Reach: Between 1840 and 1960, religious orders founded more than 1,000 hospitals in total across the country. 

Today, the Catholic Health Association reports there are more than 600 Catholic hospitals remaining in the U.S., which still account for about one in seven patients cared for daily. 

https://www.google.com/search?q=how+many+catholic+hospitals+were+there+in+the+us+in+1960+google+ai

Norb Leahy, Dunwoody GA Tea Party Leader

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