Think hospitals can’t be funny? This new NBC sitcom would disagree.

TV writer Justin Spitzer transformed a big-box store into a successful sitcom with NBC’s “Superstore,” which aired from 2015 to 2021. He then shifted gears with the quickly canceled “American Auto,” poking fun at the corporate world of a Detroit car manufacturer. Now, he’s diving into an emergency room, where he uncovers that illness and death are just as ripe for humor as corporate jargon was at Aisle 8.

In NBC’s latest mockumentary-style series “St. Denis Medical” (premiering Tuesday at 8 EST/PST, ★★★ out of four), Spitzer brings his signature blend of sarcasm and humor to a hospital backdrop, featuring a stellar cast including David Alan Grier, Wendi McClendon-Covey, and Allison Tolman. While there’s a bit more blood compared to “Superstore” (but not much), the underlying theme remains that things at this hospital could vastly improve. Instead, we encounter a chaotic and amusing healthcare system.

St. Denis is a small-town hospital in Oregon filled with heart, as its administrator Joyce (McClendon-Covey) might say. The modest ER is led by head nurse Alex (Tolman), who is dedicated but finds it challenging to wrap up for the day. She’s surrounded by a mix of superiors, ranging from foolish to completely out of touch, including the delusional Joyce, and doctors Ron (Grier) and Bruce (Josh Lawson), each adding their own frustrations to the mix. Her fellow nurses also bring their own quirks, from sheltered Matt (Mekki Leeper) to the calm Serena (Kahyun Kim) and resourceful Val (Kaliko Kauahi, a “Superstore” alum).

The show combines comedic hospital antics with character-driven drama. In one episode, Serena parks too close to Ron, causing tension, while in another, Matt assists in resuscitating a patient but eagerly awaits gratitude for his CPR skills.

The series swiftly establishes its ironic, cynical voice, alongside a strong chemistry among the cast. Tolman, a gifted character actor, expertly anchors the show with her wit and subtle glances to the audience reminiscent of Jim from “The Office.” Kauahi showcases more depth beyond her previous role as Sandra on “Superstore,” while seasoned actors Grier and McClendon-Covey (“The Goldbergs”) deliver reliable humor by fully embracing their roles. McClendon-Covey shines as the ridiculous boss that everyone loves to dislike (and yet cannot help but adore).

It’s easy to label “St. Denis” as “Scrubs” meets “The Office,” simply because it’s a mockumentary set in a hospital. However, that might unfairly reduce it to being just another imitation of popular shows; it strives for its own distinct flavor. It offers a cynical lens on healthcare that resonates with the challenges of America in 2024. While none of the characters are thrilled about their reality, the nurses are definitely putting in the maximum effort. This all feels very relatable.

At times, the show may feel like it’s trying too hard; its humor and narratives don’t always flow as seamlessly as those in “Superstore.” This reinforces the notion that creating a naturally charming and comedic sitcom is much more challenging than it appears, even when all the essential elements are in place.

Nonetheless, “St. Denis” holds great promise and fills a gap for an intelligent network sitcom this season. Amidst everything, we could all use a bit of laughter. Even in an emergency room setting.