St. Elsewhere -

Premise:

“St. Elsewhere” (1982–1988) is a medical drama that unfolds within the fictional Boston teaching hospital, St. Eligius. The series offers a detailed exploration of the personal and professional lives of the hospital’s staff, encompassing a wide range of medical cases and ethical dilemmas. The show delves into the challenges faced by doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals as they navigate the complexities of the healthcare system while dealing with their own struggles.

Main Central Characters:

Dr. Donald Westphall (Ed Flanders): The Chief of Services at St. Eligius, Dr. Westphall plays a central role in overseeing the hospital’s operations.
Dr. Mark Craig (William Daniels): Chief of Surgery, Dr. Craig is a skilled and ambitious surgeon with a complex personality.
Dr. Victor Ehrlich (Ed Begley Jr.): A resident in surgery, Dr. Ehrlich is known for his awkwardness and humorous interactions.
Dr. Daniel Auschlander (Norman Lloyd): The hospital’s philosophical and compassionate Chief of Services who is diagnosed with terminal cancer.
Dr. Jack Morrison (David Morse): A principled and dedicated doctor facing personal and professional challenges.
Dr. Ellen Craig (Christina Pickles): The wife of Dr. Mark Craig, Ellen is a social worker at the hospital, adding a unique perspective.

Themes:

“St. Elsewhere” explores various themes, including the ethical dilemmas in medical practice, the personal lives of healthcare professionals, and the impact of institutional challenges on patient care. The series often tackles issues such as life, death, and the human condition.

Critical Consensus (Rating: 4.5/5):

Critics praised “St. Elsewhere” for its innovative storytelling, compelling characters, and its willingness to address complex and controversial topics within the medical field. The series is considered a pioneer in the medical drama genre, earning acclaim for its realism and character development.

TV Parental Guidelines Rating:

“St. Elsewhere” likely received a TV-14 rating due to its mature themes, including medical procedures, ethical dilemmas, and adult relationships.

Original Network and Run:

“St. Elsewhere” originally aired on NBC from 1982 to 1988.