Opening Soon In Boston: Mass. General's Museum Of Medical Innovation

In a spot in front of Massachusetts General Hospital that used to be completely unmemorable — judging by the fact that I can't remember what was there — stood the gleaming little gem of a building you see above, all shining copper and glass. On the front, I made out "Museum of Medical History and Innovation."

Who knew? Clearly I've been out of it, probably because I've been too assiduously ignoring all the big institutional birthdays around town, including Mass. General's 200th. But the latest word, according to the hospital, is that the museum — named for transplant pioneer and history buff Paul S. Russell, MD — is expected to open to the public in March:

The museum’s ground floor will be home to permanent exhibits which highlight the evolution of medicine and clinical practice over MGH’s 200-year history, while the second story gallery will showcase changing exhibits, while also providing space for programs, lectures and special events.

My vote: Of course it's a Mass. General institution, but it would be wonderful if it could also feature medical innovations beyond the hospital's walls. Readers, any suggestions for exhibits?

For more background on the museum, a Beacon Hill-oriented section of the Boston Globe published a full account of the plans for it in February.