The Gesundheit! Institute is a pioneering non-profit healthcare organization dedicated to transforming the traditional concept of hospitals. Founded by Patch Adams in 1971, it advocates for a holistic approach to medical care, emphasizing the interconnectedness of individual health with that of families, communities, and the greater world. Rather than operating as a conventional facility, the institute is focused on raising funds to construct a fantasy hospital that embodies its radical principles. These principles include providing care at no cost, fostering community without debt, and prioritizing collaborative care, where patients are treated as friends.

Health care delivery at Gesundheit! is characterized by lengthy, meaningful interactions, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of patients' needs. The organization engages in several initiatives, including the Hospital Project, educational outreach, and Global Outreach, which features innovative clowning activities. Nestled on a 300-acre landscape in West Virginia, the institute combines modern biomedical practices with complementary therapies to enhance the physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being of all individuals involved.