End of construction of the new hospital sanatorium St. Joseph on Rosemont Boulevard in Montreal

Hôpital Maisonneuve Rosemont

Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont Visiting Hours, Visitor Information, and Guide – Montreal

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont (HMR), situated in Montreal’s east end, is a cornerstone of Quebec’s healthcare system and a notable site of historical and architectural interest. Established in 1971 through the merger of two major hospitals—Hôpital Maisonneuve (founded 1954 by the Grey Nuns) and Hôpital Saint-Joseph de Rosemont (opened 1950 by the Sisters of Mercy)—HMR has since grown into one of the largest hospitals in Quebec, acclaimed for its comprehensive medical services and specializations in areas such as ophthalmology, stem cell therapy, and nephrology (Université de Montréal; Wikipedia).

Serving over half a million residents, HMR is not only a hub for advanced medical care but also a vital community anchor and a teaching hospital affiliated with the Université de Montréal. Its St. Andrew’s cross-shaped design is an example of mid-20th-century architecture, providing both practical utility and visual interest (IMTL). This guide details HMR’s history, medical milestones, visitor policies, directions, accessibility, and nearby points of interest, as well as ongoing modernization efforts (La Presse; CityNews; Journal de Montréal).

Introduction
Origins and Historical Overview
The 1971 Merger and Expansion
Specializations and Medical Milestones
Visitor Information
Community Significance
Infrastructure Challenges and Modernization
Notable Events and Milestones
Architectural and Cultural Features
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion & Further Resources

Origins and Historical Overview

Founding Institutions

Hôpital Saint-Joseph de Rosemont: Opened in 1950 by the Sisters of Mercy, initially as a tuberculosis sanatorium in response to a public health crisis. It quickly became vital for local residents (IMTL).
Hôpital Maisonneuve: Inaugurated in 1954 by the Grey Nuns, this hospital housed a nursing school and, for a time, the Montreal Heart Institute, shaping early care standards in the city (Wikipedia; IMTL).

The 1971 Merger and Expansion

Provincial healthcare reforms led to the 1971 merger, combining resources and expertise to form Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont. The hospital’s St. Andrew’s cross-shaped layout was designed for efficient patient flow and has since become a recognizable feature (Université de Montréal; IMTL). HMR now employs over 5,000 staff and hosts 3,000 students annually (Wikipedia).

Specializations and Medical Milestones

Ophthalmology: HMR is a leading center for eye care and research.
Stem Cell Treatments: The hospital pioneered stem cell therapies in Quebec, including the province’s first emergency pediatric bone marrow transplant in the 1980s (La Presse).
Nephrology: HMR serves as a hub for kidney care, including dialysis and transplants.

As a referral center, HMR treats complex cases from across the province (La Presse).

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours and Policies

General Visiting Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM daily.
Note: Hours may vary by department or change due to health advisories; always verify with the hospital’s official site or administration before visiting.

Accessibility

Facilities: Ramps, elevators, accessible parking, and washrooms throughout the premises.
Support: Assistance available upon request for visitors with disabilities.

Directions and Transportation

Address: 5415 Boulevard de l’Assomption, Montréal, QC H1T 2M4.
Public Transit: Cadillac Metro station (Green Line) is about a 20-minute walk; bus routes 18, 185, and 197 stop nearby. For real-time routes, use the Moovit app or consult Montreal Public Transit.
Parking: Paid on-site parking available, with short-term free options for up to two hours.

Tickets, Tours, and Events

General Access: No tickets required for routine visits.
Guided Tours: Offered occasionally by the hospital or heritage groups, focusing on history, architecture, or medical education. Arrange in advance.
Special Events: Fundraisers and community events such as “Montréal Passion Vin” and “Rires Solidaires” are held periodically (Fondation HMR; MTL.org).

Nearby Attractions and Photo Opportunities

Photography: Exterior and public areas may be photographed; respect privacy regulations.
Neighborhood Highlights: Parc Molson, Marché Jean-Talon, and historic streets in Rosemont–La Petite-Patrie offer cultural and culinary experiences (IMTL).

Community Significance

HMR is the principal hospital for Montreal’s east end, delivering a full range of secondary and tertiary care. Its partnerships with institutes like the Montreal Heart Institute enhance specialized services. The hospital’s emergency department is one of the busiest in Quebec, supporting a catchment area of over 550,000 residents (CityNews). As a teaching and research center, it trains thousands of students annually and is a leader in healthcare innovation.

Infrastructure Challenges and Modernization

Despite its importance, HMR faces aging infrastructure challenges—reports of power outages, failing windows, elevator issues, and pest problems have been documented (Journal de Montréal; CityNews). Modernization has been repeatedly announced since 2012, with project costs escalating from $900 million to $5 billion by 2025, but only preliminary work (like parking garage construction) has begun (Journal de Montréal). Community advocacy continues to push for urgent action.

Notable Events and Milestones

1950: Hôpital Saint-Joseph de Rosemont opens.
1954: Hôpital Maisonneuve opens.
1971: Official merger creates HMR.
1980s: First pediatric bone marrow transplant in Quebec at HMR (La Presse).
2013: New hemodialysis unit constructed.
2016: New emergency department inaugurated.
2018–2025: Modernization projects repeatedly delayed (Journal de Montréal).

Architectural and Cultural Features

HMR’s main cross-shaped building is a hallmark of post-war institutional architecture, emphasizing practicality and efficiency. Though not ornate, its design is emblematic of Quebec’s mid-century approach to public infrastructure (IMTL). The hospital frequently hosts fundraising and community events, reinforcing its role as a cultural anchor (Fondation HMR).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours at Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont?
A: Generally, 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily; always confirm with the hospital or relevant department.

Q: Is there an admission fee or ticket required?
A: No, general visits do not require tickets. Special tours or events may require registration.

Q: How can I reach HMR by public transport?
A: Via Cadillac Metro station (Green Line) or bus routes 18, 185, and 197. See transit apps or Montreal Public Transit.

Q: Are tours available?
A: Educational or architectural tours may be arranged in advance.

Q: Is HMR accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, with ramps, elevators, and accessible facilities.

Q: Are there nearby attractions?
A: Yes—Parc Molson, Marché Jean-Talon, and historic neighborhoods are close by.

Conclusion

Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont is both a vital medical institution and a site of cultural and architectural significance in Montreal’s east end. From its origins in religious compassion to its current role as a leader in specialized care and medical research, HMR embodies the resilience and innovation of Quebec’s healthcare system. While infrastructure challenges remain, ongoing advocacy and planned modernization aim to secure its future.

For up-to-date visitor information, special event announcements, and hospital news, consult HMR’s official website or download the Audiala app for resources and alerts.