By choosing the HSHS Medical Group, you will have access to a full range of primary care, specialty groups and HSHS hospitals throughout central and southern Illinois.
A Proud History of Caring.
Arriving in Illinois in 1875, a dedicated group of Sisters built more than hospitals – they constructed a new form of health care. Committed to treating the whole person, the Sisters responded to a need and expanded their healing ministry throughout Illinois and Wisconsin.
After over a century, Hospital Sisters Health System (HSHS) continues to meet the ever-changing needs of its patients, yet remains true to the founding Sisters’ values of compassion and healing.
Ready for the Next Era of Health Care.
To ensure you always receive great care, the HSHS Medical Group is anticipating and preparing for patient need as health care changes.
By taking steps such as placing nurse navigators in our clinics and creating a system based on quality of care and not quantity of care, you can expect to receive the patient-first attention you deserve.
Historical Events Leading To The Formation Of HSHS Medical Group.
1844 | Father Christopher Bernsmeyer, OFM, welcomes young women who look after the sick in their homes without payment. It is here in the village of Telgte, Germany where the Congregation of the Hospital Sisters of the Third Order Regular of St. Francis is founded on July 2, 1844.
1875 | Sisters arrive in Illinois at the invitation of Bishop Peter Joseph Baltes of Alton, IL, to provide nursing care to the sick and poor in Alton, Springfield, Belleville, Litchfield, Effingham, and East St. Louis. The American Province of the Hospital Sisters of St. Francis is founded.
1875 | The Sisters founded the following hospitals:
St. John’s Hospital, Springfield, IL
St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, Belleville, IL
St. Francis Hospital, Litchfield, IL
St. Anthony’s Hospital, Effingham, IL
1878 | The Sisters founded the following hospitals:
St. Joseph’s Hospital, Highland, IL
St. Mary’s Hospital, Decatur, IL
1885 | St. Joseph’s Hospital, Chippewa Falls, WI, is founded.