Policlinico

Policlinico is a term used to describe a large hospital complex that provides a broad range of medical specialties and services. Typically, a policlinico offers inpatient care, outpatient clinics, diagnostic imaging, laboratories, surgical facilities, and often rehabilitation services. Many policlinici also function as teaching hospitals affiliated with universities, integrating patient care with medical education and research.

The word derives from Greek poly- meaning “many” and klinē meaning “bed” or “clinic.” In Italian usage, policlinico denotes a major urban hospital with multiple specialties, usually connected to a medical school. In other languages, similar terms such as poliklinika or policlinik often refer to outpatient clinics or networks of clinics rather than a single hospital.

Organizationally, policlinici are typically central referral centers for complex conditions, coordinating care across departments and participating in clinical trials. They emphasize multidisciplinary teams and teaching, distinguishing them from smaller community hospitals or standalone primary care facilities.

Notable examples in Italy include Policlinico Umberto I in Rome and Policlinico San Matteo in Pavia, both well known as teaching hospitals. Around the world, institutions that translate to polyclinic or policlinic share the goal of integrated, comprehensive medical care, combining clinical services with education and research.