The 55 Best Hospital TV Shows, Ranked
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    • ABC/Grey's Anatomy, Fox/House, NBC/ER

The 55 Best Hospital TV Shows, Ranked

Ranker TV
Updated February 26, 2025 151.2K views 62 items
Ranked By
16.1K votes
3.1K voters
1 reranks
Voting Rules
Vote up the best scripted dramas or comedy series set in hospitals.
Latest additions: Berlin ER, The Pitt, St. Denis Medical
Most divisive: Nurse Jackie
Over 3.1K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The 55 Best Hospital TV Shows, Ranked

Get ready to make a house-call to some of the most captivating hospital TV shows rated by fans from across the globe in a one-of-a-kind viewers' choice list. As a unique fusion of crowd-sourced recommendations and comprehensive show details, this collection lends an operating table for TV shows that offer a pulse-racing journey into the intense world of medical practice.

From the hustle of ERs to the complex stories webbing together the hospital staff, this list features a wide spectrum, catering to all medical drama enthusiasts. This democratic ranking model ensures that every viewer's voice plays a part in stitching together our well-rounded list of hospital TV shows. From long-standing series to newfound gems, the collective voice of zealous viewers shapes our list, resulting in unique rankings that expand beyond traditional critic-led charts.

Not just a patchwork of shows, but each listing is injected with a brief outline setting the tone and premise of the show. This not only enhances the guidance that accompanies TV show selection but also provides the distinctive selling points that make each show irresistible. 

Embedded in this specialty-tailored list, you'll find fan favorites known for their gripping narratives and character-driven plots that revolve around hospital life. Whether you’re fascinated by fast-paced ER dramas, intricate surgical procedures, or the human aspect of medical care, our guide provides a comprehensive spectrum of hospital-themed TV shows topped with a dose of viewer-endorsed ratings.

By empowering viewers to effect the dynamic rankings, this guide stands as a testament to the power of democratic selection. With each vote, you could nudge a favorite show higher or bring an underrated series into the spotlight, curating a crowd-powered guide that is built by fans, for fans.

Take a trip down this exclusive selection of hospital TV shows that house captivating narratives, intense medical scenarios, and relatable characters. It balances the scales between entertainment and the demanding reality of the medical field. This is your cue to step into the world brimming with hospital gossip, bedside dramas, and high-stake stories that make your heart race one episode at a time.

Ranked by
  • House
    1
    Hugh Laurie, Robert Sean Leonard, Omar Epps
    1,281 votes

    Dr. Gregory House, played by the brilliant Hugh Laurie, leads a captivating journey through the world of medical mysteries in this critically acclaimed drama series. Combining wit, suspense, and emotion, House delves into the complexities of human thought and the necessity for teamwork in resolving intricate cases. Garnering multiple awards, including Golden Globes for Hugh Laurie's exceptional performance, the show enthralls audiences by providing a gripping insight into the world of diagnostic medicine while still maintaining a human connection to its diverse characters.

    • Premiered: November 16, 2004
  • ER
    2
    Anthony Edwards, George Clooney, Julianna Margulies
    904 votes

    A groundbreaking medical drama, ER offers an unforgettable showcase of complex characters, riveting storylines, and high-stakes hospital scenarios that portray the intense world of emergency medicine. With a talented ensemble cast, including the likes of George Clooney, Julianna Margulies, and Noah Wyle, the series takes viewers on an emotional rollercoaster, exploring the lives of these committed medical professionals in and out of the emergency room. ER received critical acclaim throughout its 15-season run, capturing numerous prestigious awards and solidifying its place as an iconic series in the realm of medical drama television.

    • Premiered: September 19, 1994
    • On the Beach (Season 8, Episode 21)
      1On the Beach (Season 8, Episode 21)
      110 Votes
    • Be Still My Heart (Season 6, Episode 13)
      2Be Still My Heart (Season 6, Episode 13)
      96 Votes
    • 24 Hours (Season 1, Episode 1)
      324 Hours (Season 1, Episode 1)
      78 Votes
  • votes needed!
    NEW TO THE LIST
    • NEW
      #56
      Berlin ER
      0 votes
  • M*A*S*H
    3
    Alan Alda, McLean Stevenson, Wayne Rogers
    651 votes

    Capturing the humor and heartache of the Korean War, M*A*S*H remains a classic, offering an unparalleled blend of comedy and poignant realism. Set in the Mobile Army Surgical Hospital, the series follows the quirky and lovable cast of characters, such as Hawkeye, Radar, and Hot Lips, as they save soldiers' lives while navigating the absurdities of war. With 11 successful seasons, M*A*S*H has not only garnered countless awards but has also secured its place in the hearts of millions for its iconic take on the human spirit in times of crisis.

    • Premiered: September 17, 1972
  • Grey's Anatomy
    4
    Ellen Pompeo, Chandra Wilson, James Pickens
    1,114 votes

    Longevity and passion go hand in hand in Grey's Anatomy, a captivating drama that delves into the gripping lives and loves of the staff at Seattle Grace Hospital. Created by the talented Shonda Rhimes, the series has kept viewers enthralled for over 17 seasons with its perfect blend of romance, heartbreak, and intense medical cases. Bolstered by an incredibly talented ensemble cast, Grey's Anatomy has become a beloved household name, earning multiple awards and continuing to reinvent itself with each new storyline.

    • Premiered: March 27, 2005
    • Death and All His Friends
      1Death and All His Friends
      1,179 Votes
    • Sanctuary
      2Sanctuary
      1,072 Votes
    • Flight
      3Flight
      1,067 Votes
  • Scrubs
    5
    Zach Braff, Donald Faison, John C. McGinley
    767 votes

    Scrubs offers a refreshingly comedic take on the lives of medical professionals while still providing heartfelt moments and endearing insights into the world of healthcare. Focusing on the quirky Dr. John "J.D." Dorian, played by Zach Braff, and his shenanigans at Sacred Heart Hospital, the series exhibits its mastery over the fine balance between humor and emotion. With its memorable characters and creative storytelling, Scrubs stands out as a unique and enjoyable addition to the medical drama landscape, leaving a lasting impression on viewers with its charm and wit.

    • Premiered: October 2, 2001
    • My Screw Up
      1My Screw Up
      216 Votes
    • My Lunch
      2My Lunch
      201 Votes
    • My Fallen Idol
      3My Fallen Idol
      143 Votes
  • The Good Doctor
    6
    Freddie Highmore, Richard Schiff, Christina Chang
    957 votes

    With its engrossing premise and heartfelt portrayal of a young surgeon with autism, The Good Doctor has captured the hearts of viewers across the world. Starring Freddie Highmore as the remarkable Dr. Shaun Murphy, the series explores the prejudices and challenges faced by an individual with unique abilities navigating life in a busy teaching hospital. The show's sincere depiction of growth, relationships, and overcoming adversity has earned it numerous accolades and cemented its status as a fan-favorite in the medical drama genre.

    • Premiered: September 25, 2017
    • Ferris Wheel Scene With Glassman
      1Ferris Wheel Scene With Glassman
      17 Votes
    • Asher's Death
      2Asher's Death
      16 Votes
    • Dr. Melendez's Death
      3Dr. Melendez's Death
      25 Votes