Medical dramas are a staple of television and streaming services. Along with police procedurals and sitcoms, medical dramas are super popular and essential viewing. Since the 1950s, doctor shows have produced the most gripping and thrilling storylines that kept fans wanting more. But doctor shows are more than just dramas, with many crossing all genres. Some doctor TV shows blend comedy with heartbreaking and inspiring storylines. Other medical dramas occur during a violent war instead of the classic hospital setting. Then there’s the doctor series that adds mystery and intrigue to the show. And we can’t forget that doctor show that breaks the rules and sets the series in a time-traveling police box! So let’s take a trip to the emergency room and check out the best doctor shows you can stream right now. 19 Best Doctor Shows You Can Stream Now
- Nurse Jackie (2009-2015)
Debuting in 2009, Nurse Jackie blends drama and comedy in a gripping tale. Edie Falco stars as Nurse Jackie Peyton, an emergency room nurse at All Saints Hospital in New York City. She struggles to balance her career and home life while battling drug addiction. Despite her addictions and personal problems, Jackie’s a hard-working nurse who’s wise, sarcastic, and defiant. Undoubtedly Jackie Peyton is one of television’s most fascinating characters. The critically acclaimed Showtime series aired the series finale in 2015. Watch on Prime 2. ER (1994-2009)
In 1994, the critically acclaimed medical drama ER debuted to rave reviews. It surprisingly beat David E. Kelly’s much-loved medical drama, Chicago Hope. Set at the Cook County General Hospital, the series follows the lives of physicians, attendings, and nurses in the emergency room. Created by Michael Crichton, the critically acclaimed series won several awards, including the Emmy Award for Outstanding Drama Series. The beloved medical drama also launched the career of several significant movie stars, most notably George Clooney. Despite ending in 2009, the series continues to influence medical dramas and doctor shows. Watch on Hulu 3. Scrubs (2001-2010)
Few doctor shows compare with the iconic sitcom Scrubs. The critically acclaimed series follows the lives and careers of the interns, nurses, and doctors at Sacred Heart Hospital. Portrayed by Zack Braff, John “J.D.” Dorian starts the series as an intern but became a capable doctor by the end of the series. The show deals with disease, death, and loss. Scrubs also often uses slapstick comedy and surreal daydreams taking place in J.D.’s head. The series’ style of comedy and surreal cutaways help separate Scrubs from the rest of the doctor shows. Watch on Hulu 4. MAS*H (1972-1983)
Often considered one of the greatest television series of all time, MAS*H follows the Mobile Army Surgical Hospital’s doctors and staff during the Korean War. The series aired from 1972 to 1983 and focused on Chief Surgeon Captain Benjamin “Hawkeye” Pierce (portrayed by Alan Alda). The series was a massive success, often featuring elements of comedy and heartbreaking drama. Additionally, the famous series finale remains the most-watched scripted series finale of all time. Watch on Hulu 5. House M.D. (2004-2012)
The critically acclaimed House M.D. aired from 2004 to 2012, becoming one of the highest-rated television shows. Set at Princeton-Plainsboro Teaching Hospital in New Jersey, House follows Dr. Gregory House, the leader of the diagnosticians’ team. Portrayed by Hugh Laurie, House has a reputation for being a genius with unconventional methods and contempt for everyone he knows. He doesn’t follow the rules and has very few friends. House remains hugely popular despite being off the air for more than ten years. Watch on Apple TV 6. Grey’s Anatomy (2005-Present)
The longest-running medical drama of all time, Grey’s Anatomy, debuted in 2005 to rave reviews. The series is still going strong after 19 seasons on the air. With an all-star cast, the series follows the lives of interns and surgeons at the Seattle Grace Hospital in Seattle, Washington. For the first 19 seasons, the plot revolves around Dr. Meredith Grey as she focuses on her career while dealing with her personal life. Later, the series focuses on an ensemble cast. The critically acclaimed series won numerous awards and led to two popular spinoffs, Private Practice and Station 19. Watch on Netflix 7. Chicago Med (2015-Present)
Set in Dick Wolf’s Chicago Franchise, Chicago Med follows the lives of doctors and nurses working in the Gaffney Chicago Medical Center’s emergency room. The medical drama focuses on a former plastic surgeon and new supervising attending physician, Dr. Will Halstead. The doctor and nurses come together to save patients daily in the ER while dealing with their personal lives. The critically acclaimed series is hugely popular and often crosses over with other series in the One Franchise, such as Chicago Fire and Chicago P.D. Watch on NBC 8. Doctor Who (1963-Present)
The classic BBC series Doctor Who is unlike any other TV show on this list. First of all, it’s not a medical drama set in a hospital. Instead, the series revolves around a time lord, The Doctor, who travels through time and space in a police box. While not set in a hospital, The Doctor often saves lives using his medical and time-traveling knowledge. The series first debuted in 1963 with thirteen different actors having played the role of The Doctor, including William Hartnell, David Tennant, and Jodie Whittaker. Watch on Prime 9. St. Elsewhere (1982-1988)
Located in Boston’s South End, St. Eligius is a teaching hospital where veteran doctors guide interns as they enter the profession. St. Elsewhere aired on NBC from 1982 to 1988 to universal praise. In fact, the series launched the career of Hollywood legend Denzel Washington. Known for its realistic depictions of the medical profession, it paved the way for future medical dramas. Considered one of the best doctor shows of all time, St. Elsewhere features a stellar cast and unforgettable storylines. Watch on Hulu 10. Doogie Howser M.D. (1989-1993)
Neil Patrick Harris first became a household name for his starring role in Doogie Howser, MD. By the time Doogie Howser was 16 years old, he was already a second-year resident surgeon. Set in Eastman Medical Center in Los Angeles, the series follows the boy genius with a photographic memory as he balances life as a doctor and being a teenage boy. The series aired from 1989 to 1993, turning Harris into a significant star. It is a famous medical comedy and easily one of the best doctor shows. Watch on Hulu
See more about - The 11 Best Must Watch Prison TV Shows
- Virgin River (2019-Present)
The popular Netflix series Virgin River takes the heart-pounding action of a hospital and places it in a small quaint town. The series follows Melinda “Mel” Monroe, who moves to the small town of Virgin River to accept a nurse practitioner and midwife job. Of course, Mel’s trying to escape painful memories and a haunting past. Based on the Robyn Carr novels of the same name, Virgin River debuted to rave reviews in 2019. The unique series continues to gain a large following. Watch on Netflix 12. The Good Doctor (2017-Present)
Doctor Shaun Murphy is a brilliant surgical resident at St. Bonaventure Hospital in San Jose. Initially, he’s met with some resistance from staff personnel because he’s an autistic savant. Regardless, he proves to be a capable doctor who saves the lives of his patients. Based on the South Korean series of the same name, ABC’s The Good Doctor hit the airwaves in 2017. Despite getting mixed reviews, the series garners huge ratings and praise for Freddie Highmore’s performance as Shaun Murphy. Watch on ABC 13. Dr. Death (2021-Present)
Based on the shocking true story, Dr. Death revolves around narcissistic surgeon Christopher Duntsch who maimed several of his patients and caused two deaths. The story follows Dr. Randall Kirby and assistant district attorney Michelle Shughart as they unravel Duntsch’s crimes. The upcoming second season revolves around Doctor Paolo Macchiarini, who conducted several highly controversial experiments on healthy patients resulting in their deaths. The medical anthology series debuted in 2021 to rave reviews. Watch on Peacock 14. Transplant (2020-Present)
Set in Toronto, Canada, Transplant revolves around Syrian refugee Dr. Bashir “Bash” Hamed as he rebuilds his career after escaping the Syrian Civil War. While working at the York Memorial Hospital in Canada, Bash struggles to balance his personal life while working in a career in emergency medicine. Transplant is already one of the most popular medical dramas in recent years. Watch on HBO 15. Chicago Hope (1994-2000)
Set in Chicago, Illinois, Chicago Hope revolves around Dr. Jeffery Geiger and the staff at a private charitable hospital. The series aired from 1994 to 2000, featuring an all-star cast including Mandy Patinkin, Thomas Gibson, and Lauren Holly. Despite being overshadowed by other medical dramas, Chicago Hope managed to create its own legacy. The popular series often crossed over with Picket Fences. Watch on Xfinity 16. Dr. Kildare (1961-1966)
Based on the 1930s MGM film series, Dr. Kildare aired on NBC from 1961 to 1966 to widespread praise. The series centers around Dr. James Kildare, who rose from intern to capable physician. He tends to his patient’s needs while balancing his personal life and trying to win the respect of his colleague. Later episodes focus more on the patients’ lives. The critically acclaimed series was a significant hit at the time. Furthermore, Dr. Kildare was highly influential on future medical dramas. Watch on Roku 17. Hawthorne (2009-2011)
While many medical shows often focus on the doctors, Hawthorne looks at the world from the nurses’ perspectives. Starring Jada Pinkett-Smith, Christina Hawthrone is the Chief Nursing Officer at the Richmond Trinity Hospital. She loves her job and often stands up for her patients and staff. The series aired for three seasons from 2009 to 2011. The abrupt cancellation left fans with questions regarding the season three finale cliffhanger. Watch on Prime 18. Royal Pains (2009-2016)
Emergency room doctor Hank Lawson takes the blame for the death of an important billionaire. However, he finds a new career as a concierge doctor to the rich and powerful in the Hamptons. The USA Network’s Royal Pains aired from 2009 to 2016, becoming one of the highest-rated shows on the network. The comedy-drama received widespread praise and is easily one of the funniest medical dramas you can stream. Watch on Prime 19. New Amsterdam (2018-Present)
Based on Twelve Patients: Life and Death at Bellevue Hospital, New Amsterdam follows the staff at one of the oldest hospitals in New York. Debuting in 2018, it centers on Dr. Max Goodwin, who takes over as medical director as he struggles with his own terminal illness. While it garnered a few mixed reviews, the series is popular with fans of medical dramas. Watch on NBC
See more about - 27 Best Mystery Shows of All Time
Medical dramas are a staple of television and streaming services. Along with police procedurals and sitcoms, medical dramas are super popular and essential viewing. Since the 1950s, doctor shows have produced the most gripping and thrilling storylines that kept fans wanting more. But doctor shows are more than just dramas, with many crossing all genres. Some doctor TV shows blend comedy with heartbreaking and inspiring storylines. Other medical dramas occur during a violent war instead of the classic hospital setting. Then there’s the doctor series that adds mystery and intrigue to the show. And we can’t forget that doctor show that breaks the rules and sets the series in a time-traveling police box! So let’s take a trip to the emergency room and check out the best doctor shows you can stream right now. 19 Best Doctor Shows You Can Stream Now
- Nurse Jackie (2009-2015)
Debuting in 2009, Nurse Jackie blends drama and comedy in a gripping tale. Edie Falco stars as Nurse Jackie Peyton, an emergency room nurse at All Saints Hospital in New York City. She struggles to balance her career and home life while battling drug addiction. Despite her addictions and personal problems, Jackie’s a hard-working nurse who’s wise, sarcastic, and defiant. Undoubtedly Jackie Peyton is one of television’s most fascinating characters. The critically acclaimed Showtime series aired the series finale in 2015. Watch on Prime 2. ER (1994-2009)
In 1994, the critically acclaimed medical drama ER debuted to rave reviews. It surprisingly beat David E. Kelly’s much-loved medical drama, Chicago Hope. Set at the Cook County General Hospital, the series follows the lives of physicians, attendings, and nurses in the emergency room. Created by Michael Crichton, the critically acclaimed series won several awards, including the Emmy Award for Outstanding Drama Series. The beloved medical drama also launched the career of several significant movie stars, most notably George Clooney. Despite ending in 2009, the series continues to influence medical dramas and doctor shows. Watch on Hulu 3. Scrubs (2001-2010)
Few doctor shows compare with the iconic sitcom Scrubs. The critically acclaimed series follows the lives and careers of the interns, nurses, and doctors at Sacred Heart Hospital. Portrayed by Zack Braff, John “J.D.” Dorian starts the series as an intern but became a capable doctor by the end of the series. The show deals with disease, death, and loss. Scrubs also often uses slapstick comedy and surreal daydreams taking place in J.D.’s head. The series’ style of comedy and surreal cutaways help separate Scrubs from the rest of the doctor shows. Watch on Hulu 4. MAS*H (1972-1983)
Often considered one of the greatest television series of all time, MAS*H follows the Mobile Army Surgical Hospital’s doctors and staff during the Korean War. The series aired from 1972 to 1983 and focused on Chief Surgeon Captain Benjamin “Hawkeye” Pierce (portrayed by Alan Alda). The series was a massive success, often featuring elements of comedy and heartbreaking drama. Additionally, the famous series finale remains the most-watched scripted series finale of all time. Watch on Hulu 5. House M.D. (2004-2012)
The critically acclaimed House M.D. aired from 2004 to 2012, becoming one of the highest-rated television shows. Set at Princeton-Plainsboro Teaching Hospital in New Jersey, House follows Dr. Gregory House, the leader of the diagnosticians’ team. Portrayed by Hugh Laurie, House has a reputation for being a genius with unconventional methods and contempt for everyone he knows. He doesn’t follow the rules and has very few friends. House remains hugely popular despite being off the air for more than ten years. Watch on Apple TV 6. Grey’s Anatomy (2005-Present)
The longest-running medical drama of all time, Grey’s Anatomy, debuted in 2005 to rave reviews. The series is still going strong after 19 seasons on the air. With an all-star cast, the series follows the lives of interns and surgeons at the Seattle Grace Hospital in Seattle, Washington. For the first 19 seasons, the plot revolves around Dr. Meredith Grey as she focuses on her career while dealing with her personal life. Later, the series focuses on an ensemble cast. The critically acclaimed series won numerous awards and led to two popular spinoffs, Private Practice and Station 19. Watch on Netflix 7. Chicago Med (2015-Present)
Set in Dick Wolf’s Chicago Franchise, Chicago Med follows the lives of doctors and nurses working in the Gaffney Chicago Medical Center’s emergency room. The medical drama focuses on a former plastic surgeon and new supervising attending physician, Dr. Will Halstead. The doctor and nurses come together to save patients daily in the ER while dealing with their personal lives. The critically acclaimed series is hugely popular and often crosses over with other series in the One Franchise, such as Chicago Fire and Chicago P.D. Watch on NBC 8. Doctor Who (1963-Present)
The classic BBC series Doctor Who is unlike any other TV show on this list. First of all, it’s not a medical drama set in a hospital. Instead, the series revolves around a time lord, The Doctor, who travels through time and space in a police box. While not set in a hospital, The Doctor often saves lives using his medical and time-traveling knowledge. The series first debuted in 1963 with thirteen different actors having played the role of The Doctor, including William Hartnell, David Tennant, and Jodie Whittaker. Watch on Prime 9. St. Elsewhere (1982-1988)
Located in Boston’s South End, St. Eligius is a teaching hospital where veteran doctors guide interns as they enter the profession. St. Elsewhere aired on NBC from 1982 to 1988 to universal praise. In fact, the series launched the career of Hollywood legend Denzel Washington. Known for its realistic depictions of the medical profession, it paved the way for future medical dramas. Considered one of the best doctor shows of all time, St. Elsewhere features a stellar cast and unforgettable storylines. Watch on Hulu 10. Doogie Howser M.D. (1989-1993)
Neil Patrick Harris first became a household name for his starring role in Doogie Howser, MD. By the time Doogie Howser was 16 years old, he was already a second-year resident surgeon. Set in Eastman Medical Center in Los Angeles, the series follows the boy genius with a photographic memory as he balances life as a doctor and being a teenage boy. The series aired from 1989 to 1993, turning Harris into a significant star. It is a famous medical comedy and easily one of the best doctor shows. Watch on Hulu
See more about - The 11 Best Must Watch Prison TV Shows
- Virgin River (2019-Present)
The popular Netflix series Virgin River takes the heart-pounding action of a hospital and places it in a small quaint town. The series follows Melinda “Mel” Monroe, who moves to the small town of Virgin River to accept a nurse practitioner and midwife job. Of course, Mel’s trying to escape painful memories and a haunting past. Based on the Robyn Carr novels of the same name, Virgin River debuted to rave reviews in 2019. The unique series continues to gain a large following. Watch on Netflix 12. The Good Doctor (2017-Present)
Doctor Shaun Murphy is a brilliant surgical resident at St. Bonaventure Hospital in San Jose. Initially, he’s met with some resistance from staff personnel because he’s an autistic savant. Regardless, he proves to be a capable doctor who saves the lives of his patients. Based on the South Korean series of the same name, ABC’s The Good Doctor hit the airwaves in 2017. Despite getting mixed reviews, the series garners huge ratings and praise for Freddie Highmore’s performance as Shaun Murphy. Watch on ABC 13. Dr. Death (2021-Present)
Based on the shocking true story, Dr. Death revolves around narcissistic surgeon Christopher Duntsch who maimed several of his patients and caused two deaths. The story follows Dr. Randall Kirby and assistant district attorney Michelle Shughart as they unravel Duntsch’s crimes. The upcoming second season revolves around Doctor Paolo Macchiarini, who conducted several highly controversial experiments on healthy patients resulting in their deaths. The medical anthology series debuted in 2021 to rave reviews. Watch on Peacock 14. Transplant (2020-Present)
Set in Toronto, Canada, Transplant revolves around Syrian refugee Dr. Bashir “Bash” Hamed as he rebuilds his career after escaping the Syrian Civil War. While working at the York Memorial Hospital in Canada, Bash struggles to balance his personal life while working in a career in emergency medicine. Transplant is already one of the most popular medical dramas in recent years. Watch on HBO 15. Chicago Hope (1994-2000)
Set in Chicago, Illinois, Chicago Hope revolves around Dr. Jeffery Geiger and the staff at a private charitable hospital. The series aired from 1994 to 2000, featuring an all-star cast including Mandy Patinkin, Thomas Gibson, and Lauren Holly. Despite being overshadowed by other medical dramas, Chicago Hope managed to create its own legacy. The popular series often crossed over with Picket Fences. Watch on Xfinity 16. Dr. Kildare (1961-1966)
Based on the 1930s MGM film series, Dr. Kildare aired on NBC from 1961 to 1966 to widespread praise. The series centers around Dr. James Kildare, who rose from intern to capable physician. He tends to his patient’s needs while balancing his personal life and trying to win the respect of his colleague. Later episodes focus more on the patients’ lives. The critically acclaimed series was a significant hit at the time. Furthermore, Dr. Kildare was highly influential on future medical dramas. Watch on Roku 17. Hawthorne (2009-2011)
While many medical shows often focus on the doctors, Hawthorne looks at the world from the nurses’ perspectives. Starring Jada Pinkett-Smith, Christina Hawthrone is the Chief Nursing Officer at the Richmond Trinity Hospital. She loves her job and often stands up for her patients and staff. The series aired for three seasons from 2009 to 2011. The abrupt cancellation left fans with questions regarding the season three finale cliffhanger. Watch on Prime 18. Royal Pains (2009-2016)
Emergency room doctor Hank Lawson takes the blame for the death of an important billionaire. However, he finds a new career as a concierge doctor to the rich and powerful in the Hamptons. The USA Network’s Royal Pains aired from 2009 to 2016, becoming one of the highest-rated shows on the network. The comedy-drama received widespread praise and is easily one of the funniest medical dramas you can stream. Watch on Prime 19. New Amsterdam (2018-Present)
Based on Twelve Patients: Life and Death at Bellevue Hospital, New Amsterdam follows the staff at one of the oldest hospitals in New York. Debuting in 2018, it centers on Dr. Max Goodwin, who takes over as medical director as he struggles with his own terminal illness. While it garnered a few mixed reviews, the series is popular with fans of medical dramas. Watch on NBC
See more about - 27 Best Mystery Shows of All Time
Medical dramas are a staple of television and streaming services. Along with police procedurals and sitcoms, medical dramas are super popular and essential viewing. Since the 1950s, doctor shows have produced the most gripping and thrilling storylines that kept fans wanting more.
But doctor shows are more than just dramas, with many crossing all genres. Some doctor TV shows blend comedy with heartbreaking and inspiring storylines. Other medical dramas occur during a violent war instead of the classic hospital setting. Then there’s the doctor series that adds mystery and intrigue to the show. And we can’t forget that doctor show that breaks the rules and sets the series in a time-traveling police box!
So let’s take a trip to the emergency room and check out the best doctor shows you can stream right now.
19 Best Doctor Shows You Can Stream Now
1. Nurse Jackie (2009-2015)
Debuting in 2009, Nurse Jackie blends drama and comedy in a gripping tale. Edie Falco stars as Nurse Jackie Peyton, an emergency room nurse at All Saints Hospital in New York City. She struggles to balance her career and home life while battling drug addiction.
Despite her addictions and personal problems, Jackie’s a hard-working nurse who’s wise, sarcastic, and defiant. Undoubtedly Jackie Peyton is one of television’s most fascinating characters. The critically acclaimed Showtime series aired the series finale in 2015.
2. ER (1994-2009)
In 1994, the critically acclaimed medical drama ER debuted to rave reviews. It surprisingly beat David E. Kelly’s much-loved medical drama, Chicago Hope. Set at the Cook County General Hospital, the series follows the lives of physicians, attendings, and nurses in the emergency room.
Created by Michael Crichton, the critically acclaimed series won several awards, including the Emmy Award for Outstanding Drama Series. The beloved medical drama also launched the career of several significant movie stars, most notably George Clooney. Despite ending in 2009, the series continues to influence medical dramas and doctor shows.
3. Scrubs (2001-2010)
Few doctor shows compare with the iconic sitcom Scrubs. The critically acclaimed series follows the lives and careers of the interns, nurses, and doctors at Sacred Heart Hospital. Portrayed by Zack Braff, John “J.D.” Dorian starts the series as an intern but became a capable doctor by the end of the series.
The show deals with disease, death, and loss. Scrubs also often uses slapstick comedy and surreal daydreams taking place in J.D.’s head. The series’ style of comedy and surreal cutaways help separate Scrubs from the rest of the doctor shows.
4. MAS*H (1972-1983)
Often considered one of the greatest television series of all time, MAS*H follows the Mobile Army Surgical Hospital’s doctors and staff during the Korean War. The series aired from 1972 to 1983 and focused on Chief Surgeon Captain Benjamin “Hawkeye” Pierce (portrayed by Alan Alda).
The series was a massive success, often featuring elements of comedy and heartbreaking drama. Additionally, the famous series finale remains the most-watched scripted series finale of all time.
5. House M.D. (2004-2012)
The critically acclaimed House M.D. aired from 2004 to 2012, becoming one of the highest-rated television shows. Set at Princeton-Plainsboro Teaching Hospital in New Jersey, House follows Dr. Gregory House, the leader of the diagnosticians’ team.
Portrayed by Hugh Laurie, House has a reputation for being a genius with unconventional methods and contempt for everyone he knows. He doesn’t follow the rules and has very few friends. House remains hugely popular despite being off the air for more than ten years.
6. Grey’s Anatomy (2005-Present)
The longest-running medical drama of all time, Grey’s Anatomy, debuted in 2005 to rave reviews. The series is still going strong after 19 seasons on the air. With an all-star cast, the series follows the lives of interns and surgeons at the Seattle Grace Hospital in Seattle, Washington.
For the first 19 seasons, the plot revolves around Dr. Meredith Grey as she focuses on her career while dealing with her personal life. Later, the series focuses on an ensemble cast. The critically acclaimed series won numerous awards and led to two popular spinoffs, Private Practice and Station 19.
7. Chicago Med (2015-Present)
Set in Dick Wolf’s Chicago Franchise, Chicago Med follows the lives of doctors and nurses working in the Gaffney Chicago Medical Center’s emergency room. The medical drama focuses on a former plastic surgeon and new supervising attending physician, Dr. Will Halstead.
The doctor and nurses come together to save patients daily in the ER while dealing with their personal lives. The critically acclaimed series is hugely popular and often crosses over with other series in the One Franchise, such as Chicago Fire and Chicago P.D.
8. Doctor Who (1963-Present)
The classic BBC series Doctor Who is unlike any other TV show on this list. First of all, it’s not a medical drama set in a hospital. Instead, the series revolves around a time lord, The Doctor, who travels through time and space in a police box.
While not set in a hospital, The Doctor often saves lives using his medical and time-traveling knowledge. The series first debuted in 1963 with thirteen different actors having played the role of The Doctor, including William Hartnell, David Tennant, and Jodie Whittaker.
9. St. Elsewhere (1982-1988)
Located in Boston’s South End, St. Eligius is a teaching hospital where veteran doctors guide interns as they enter the profession. St. Elsewhere aired on NBC from 1982 to 1988 to universal praise. In fact, the series launched the career of Hollywood legend Denzel Washington.
Known for its realistic depictions of the medical profession, it paved the way for future medical dramas. Considered one of the best doctor shows of all time, St. Elsewhere features a stellar cast and unforgettable storylines.
10. Doogie Howser M.D. (1989-1993)
Neil Patrick Harris first became a household name for his starring role in Doogie Howser, MD. By the time Doogie Howser was 16 years old, he was already a second-year resident surgeon. Set in Eastman Medical Center in Los Angeles, the series follows the boy genius with a photographic memory as he balances life as a doctor and being a teenage boy.
The series aired from 1989 to 1993, turning Harris into a significant star. It is a famous medical comedy and easily one of the best doctor shows.
See more about - The 11 Best Must Watch Prison TV Shows
11. Virgin River (2019-Present)
See more about - The 11 Best Must Watch Prison TV Shows
The popular Netflix series Virgin River takes the heart-pounding action of a hospital and places it in a small quaint town. The series follows Melinda “Mel” Monroe, who moves to the small town of Virgin River to accept a nurse practitioner and midwife job. Of course, Mel’s trying to escape painful memories and a haunting past.
Based on the Robyn Carr novels of the same name, Virgin River debuted to rave reviews in 2019. The unique series continues to gain a large following.
12. The Good Doctor (2017-Present)
Doctor Shaun Murphy is a brilliant surgical resident at St. Bonaventure Hospital in San Jose. Initially, he’s met with some resistance from staff personnel because he’s an autistic savant. Regardless, he proves to be a capable doctor who saves the lives of his patients.
Based on the South Korean series of the same name, ABC’s The Good Doctor hit the airwaves in 2017. Despite getting mixed reviews, the series garners huge ratings and praise for Freddie Highmore’s performance as Shaun Murphy.
13. Dr. Death (2021-Present)
Based on the shocking true story, Dr. Death revolves around narcissistic surgeon Christopher Duntsch who maimed several of his patients and caused two deaths. The story follows Dr. Randall Kirby and assistant district attorney Michelle Shughart as they unravel Duntsch’s crimes.
The upcoming second season revolves around Doctor Paolo Macchiarini, who conducted several highly controversial experiments on healthy patients resulting in their deaths. The medical anthology series debuted in 2021 to rave reviews.
14. Transplant (2020-Present)
Set in Toronto, Canada, Transplant revolves around Syrian refugee Dr. Bashir “Bash” Hamed as he rebuilds his career after escaping the Syrian Civil War. While working at the York Memorial Hospital in Canada, Bash struggles to balance his personal life while working in a career in emergency medicine. Transplant is already one of the most popular medical dramas in recent years.
15. Chicago Hope (1994-2000)
Set in Chicago, Illinois, Chicago Hope revolves around Dr. Jeffery Geiger and the staff at a private charitable hospital. The series aired from 1994 to 2000, featuring an all-star cast including Mandy Patinkin, Thomas Gibson, and Lauren Holly.
Despite being overshadowed by other medical dramas, Chicago Hope managed to create its own legacy. The popular series often crossed over with Picket Fences.
16. Dr. Kildare (1961-1966)
Based on the 1930s MGM film series, Dr. Kildare aired on NBC from 1961 to 1966 to widespread praise. The series centers around Dr. James Kildare, who rose from intern to capable physician. He tends to his patient’s needs while balancing his personal life and trying to win the respect of his colleague.
Later episodes focus more on the patients’ lives. The critically acclaimed series was a significant hit at the time. Furthermore, Dr. Kildare was highly influential on future medical dramas.
17. Hawthorne (2009-2011)
While many medical shows often focus on the doctors, Hawthorne looks at the world from the nurses’ perspectives. Starring Jada Pinkett-Smith, Christina Hawthrone is the Chief Nursing Officer at the Richmond Trinity Hospital. She loves her job and often stands up for her patients and staff.
The series aired for three seasons from 2009 to 2011. The abrupt cancellation left fans with questions regarding the season three finale cliffhanger.
18. Royal Pains (2009-2016)
Emergency room doctor Hank Lawson takes the blame for the death of an important billionaire. However, he finds a new career as a concierge doctor to the rich and powerful in the Hamptons.
The USA Network’s Royal Pains aired from 2009 to 2016, becoming one of the highest-rated shows on the network. The comedy-drama received widespread praise and is easily one of the funniest medical dramas you can stream.
19. New Amsterdam (2018-Present)
Based on Twelve Patients: Life and Death at Bellevue Hospital, New Amsterdam follows the staff at one of the oldest hospitals in New York. Debuting in 2018, it centers on Dr. Max Goodwin, who takes over as medical director as he struggles with his own terminal illness. While it garnered a few mixed reviews, the series is popular with fans of medical dramas.
See more about - 27 Best Mystery Shows of All Time
See more about - 27 Best Mystery Shows of All Time
