Policlínicas

A policlínica is a type of healthcare facility that offers a wide range of medical services under one roof. The term originates from Spanish and Portuguese, translating to "polyclinic" in English. These centers are designed to provide comprehensive outpatient care, meaning patients typically visit for consultations, diagnostic tests, and treatments that do not require hospitalization.

Policlínicas often house various medical specialties, allowing patients to see different doctors and undergo tests without needing to travel to multiple locations. Common services found in a policlínica include general medicine, pediatrics, dentistry, dermatology, ophthalmology, cardiology, and laboratory testing. Some may also offer specialized services such as physical therapy, radiology, or minor surgical procedures.

The primary goal of a policlínica is to offer convenient and accessible healthcare. They serve a broad segment of the population, often acting as a primary point of contact for routine medical needs. By consolidating various services, policlínicas aim to streamline patient care, reduce waiting times, and improve the overall efficiency of the healthcare system. They can be public or private institutions, depending on the country and the specific healthcare model in place.