Officially opened by Her Royal Highness Princess Alexandra on April 27, 1965, the hospital has become a cornerstone of healthcare in the region, providing generations of families with vital care, treatment and support.
Since its opening day in 1965, The Princess Alexandra Hospital has been at the forefront of medical innovation and community care.
Among its many achievements, the hospital introduced computerised tomography (CT) scanning technology in the 1970s, a development that revolutionised diagnostic imaging.
In 1998, HRH Princess Alexandra returned to officially open a new, state-of-the-art CT scanner suite, cementing the hospital’s reputation for embracing advances in patient care.
The hospital’s commitment to modernisation has continued into the present day.
In 2020, PAHT installed a new CT scanner, backed by government funding, enhancing diagnostic services even further.
Last year alone, the hospital carried out over 38,000 CT investigations, helping to deliver earlier and more accurate diagnoses for patients.
Now operating as The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust since 1995, the trust provides services not only at its Harlow site but also at the Herts and Essex Hospital in Bishop’s Stortford and St Margaret’s Hospital in Epping.
Investment in infrastructure and services has been a constant priority, with major renovations across inpatient wards and the development of new units such as the Same Day Emergency Care Unit and the Urgent Treatment Centre.
Thom Lafferty, chief executive of PAHT, said: “As we celebrate 60 years of The Princess Alexandra Hospital, we are incredibly proud of our history and, most importantly, our people.
“Our teams have worked with unwavering dedication, professionalism, and compassion, ensuring that we continue to provide high-quality care to our patients.
“This significant milestone is not only a chance to reflect on the past but also to look forward with excitement.
“Our investment in new facilities, digital technology, and the future new hospital means we are well placed to continue providing excellent healthcare services for the next 60 years and beyond.
“As PAHT marks this special occasion, we invite our community to join us in celebrating our hospital’s rich history and bright future.”
