The Clinical Center Champalimaud, part of the Champalimaud Foundation, is a state-of-the-art medical facility located in Lisbon, Portugal. It is renowned for its dedication to biomedical research and cutting-edge clinical care, particularly in the areas of oncology, neurosciences, and regenerative medicine.

Vision and Mission

The center’s mission is to contribute to the advancement of medical knowledge and treatment through rigorous scientific research, innovative clinical practices, and a patient-centered approach. The vision of the Clinical Center Champalimaud is to become a global leader in translational research and clinical care, ensuring that scientific discoveries are rapidly and effectively translated into improved patient outcomes.

Facilities and Equipment

The Clinical Center is equipped with advanced diagnostic and therapeutic technologies, including state-of-the-art imaging systems, robotic surgery units, and specialized laboratories for genomic and molecular research. The infrastructure is designed to support an integrated approach to patient care, combining advanced medical treatments with comprehensive support services.

Specialties and Services

The Clinical Center Champalimaud offers specialized services in various medical fields, with a strong focus on cancer treatment, neurosciences, and regenerative medicine. It provides a range of services from early diagnosis to personalized treatment plans, leveraging the latest scientific research and technological advancements.

The Clinical Center Champalimaud offers a range of specialized services aimed at providing high-quality care and innovative treatments. Here are some of the key specialized services provided:

1. Oncology Services

• Comprehensive cancer care including diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up.
• Advanced treatment options such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy.
• Specialized programs for various types of cancers including breast, lung, colorectal, and prostate cancer.

2. Neurosciences

• Treatment of neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and epilepsy.
• Advanced neurosurgical procedures.
• Rehabilitation services for neurological patients.

3. Translational Research

• Bridging the gap between laboratory research and clinical application.
• Focus on personalized medicine and innovative treatment protocols.
• Collaboration with international research institutions.

4. Digestive System and Metabolic Diseases

• Diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal disorders.
• Specialized care for metabolic diseases like diabetes and obesity.
• Endoscopic and minimally invasive surgical procedures.

5. Imaging and Radiology

• State-of-the-art imaging technology including MRI, CT scans, and PET scans.
• Interventional radiology services.
• Diagnostic imaging for various medical conditions.

The Clinical Center Champalimaud, part of the Champalimaud Foundation, is renowned for its high standards in medical care, research, and innovation. Key aspects contributing to its quality include:

1. Advanced Technology and Equipment: The center is equipped with state-of-the-art medical technology and equipment, enabling precise diagnostics and effective treatments. This includes cutting-edge imaging systems, radiotherapy machines, and surgical instruments.

2. Expert Medical Staff: The center boasts a team of highly qualified and experienced medical professionals, including doctors, surgeons, researchers, and support staff. Continuous professional development and training ensure that the staff remains at the forefront of medical advancements.

3. Patient-Centered Care: Emphasis is placed on providing personalized care tailored to the individual needs of each patient. This approach includes comprehensive treatment plans, holistic support services, and a focus on the overall well-being of patients.

4. Innovative Research: The Clinical Center Champalimaud is deeply involved in medical research, particularly in the fields of cancer, neuroscience, and regenerative medicine. Collaboration with international research institutions and participation in clinical trials contribute to its innovative treatments and therapies.

5. Accreditations and Certifications: The center has received various accreditations and certifications from respected health organizations, reflecting its commitment to maintaining high standards of care and safety.

Strategic Direction:

The Clinical Center Champalimaud is driven by an overarching strategic vision to become a global leader in biomedical science, clinical care, and translational research. The center aims to bridge the gap between laboratory discoveries and clinical applications, fostering an environment where innovative treatments can be rapidly developed and applied. This strategic direction is focused on:

1. Innovation in Healthcare: The center is committed to pioneering new methodologies and technologies in the diagnosis and treatment of complex diseases, particularly cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.

2. Interdisciplinary Collaboration: By promoting collaboration across various scientific disciplines, the center seeks to enhance the integration of research and clinical practice, facilitating the development of holistic and effective healthcare solutions.

Purpose:

The primary purpose of the Clinical Center Champalimaud is to advance medical knowledge and improve human health by translating scientific discoveries into practical applications. This is achieved through:

1. Research Excellence: Conducting cutting-edge research to uncover the underlying mechanisms of diseases, with a strong focus on translating these findings into clinical applications that can benefit patients worldwide.

2. Advanced Clinical Care: Providing state-of-the-art clinical services that leverage the latest scientific advancements to offer high-quality, evidence-based treatments to patients.

The Champalimaud Clinical Center (CCC) has received numerous awards and recognition for its contributions to medical research and patient care. One of its significant achievements includes the establishment of the first certified breast unit in Portugal, led by Dr. Fatima Cardoso. Dr. Cardoso has been instrumental in advancing the treatment of advanced breast cancer and was awarded the prestigious Order of Santiago da Espada for Scientific Merit by the President of Portugal in 2015. She also received the ESO Umberto Veronesi Memorial Award for her contributions to oncology​​.

The center's advanced medical technologies and sustainability efforts have also been recognized. For instance, their partnership with Philips has enabled the CCC to reduce energy consumption significantly through innovative medical imaging technologies. This partnership supports the center's sustainability targets and enhances its capacity to provide state-of-the-art medical care while minimizing environmental impact​​.

Furthermore, the CCC's interdisciplinary approach, combining clinical care with research and innovation, has earned it a reputation as a leading institution in the field of personalized medicine. Its commitment to excellence in cancer treatment, neurosciences, and vision research underscores its role as a premier medical and research facility in Europe​​.