Royal University Hospital
- Regular
Description of the Historic Place
The Royal University Hospital (RUH) is a large seven storey, seven wing structure that was completed in 1955. The building is situated at 103 Hospital Drive on the University of Saskatchewan Campus. The hospital is one of three hospitals located in the City of Saskatoon.
Heritage Value
In 1944, a survey of the health needs of Saskatchewan residents recommended that a University Hospital of 500 beds be constructed for scientific teaching, clinical instruction, and research. The opening of RUH fulfilled a huge need in the province. It provided a first-class hospital facility with diagnostic equipment and laboratories that were now linked with the University of Saskatchewan College of Medicine to deliver a comprehensive health program. A partnership between training and healthcare was also established to raise the standard of medical treatment throughout Saskatchewan.
By 1958 the hospital was fully occupied, and it became necessary to plan for an expansion. The addition was opened by Queen Elizabeth II on July 31, 1978, with 333,000 square feet dedicated to outpatient facilities, emergency services, and operating suites. A second expansion project added three new floors on top of the addition in May of 1990.
In 1992 the hospital became part of the Saskatoon District Health Board, but it continued as the principal teaching hospital of the College of Medicine. Today, the Royal University Hospital provides special services (cardiovascular medicine/surgery, neurosciences, obstetrics, and pediatrics) to the Saskatoon Health Region and the entire province.
Source: Saskatoon Health Region; Encyclopedia of Saskatchewan, Canadian Plains Research Center, University of Regina
Character Defining Elements
Key elements which contribute to the heritage value of this historic resource include:
- Those elements that reflect its historical importance as an institution including its Tyndall stone façade, castellated roofline, main arched entrance, and the buildings’ location within the University of Saskatchewan's campus; and
- Those features that relate to its scientific value, including its commitment to scientific research and health education.