University Hospital changes its name

CINCINNATI - University Hospital is no more. Say hello to University of Cincinnati Medical Center.

University officials announced the name change at a press conference Monday afternoon. The switch is designed to better connect the hospital with the University of Cincinnati and help spotlight the medical research that’s being conducted at the facility.

Newly appointed UC President Santa Ono was one of the people who pushed for the change, officials said.

"We believe this name change to University of Cincinnati Medical Center solidifies the work we've already been doing for years to be internationally known," said Dr. Brian Gibler, medical center president.

The facility has had several names since it opened in 1823 as the nation’s first teaching hospital.

It became known as Cincinnati Hospital in 1869. Later, after being known as Cincinnati General Hospital for decades, it changed its name to University Hospital in 1982.

Many physicians at University of Cincinnati Medical Center are also faculty physicians at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, which has been rated as one of the top 50 medical schools in the nation.