The Portuguese Oncology Institute of Coimbra (IPO Coimbra) is a specialized health institution dedicated to the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and research of cancer. Established with the mission to provide high-quality and comprehensive oncological care, IPO Coimbra serves as a reference center in the central region of Portugal.

Vision and Mission

Vision: To be a leading institution in oncology, recognized for excellence in clinical practice, innovation, and research.

Mission:

• To deliver integrated and patient-centered oncological care.
• To promote and support clinical and translational research.
• To contribute to the education and training of health professionals in the field of oncology.
• To engage in community outreach and cancer prevention initiatives.

Core Values

• Excellence: Commitment to the highest standards of clinical care, research, and education.
• Compassion: Providing empathetic and respectful care to all patients and their families.
• Innovation: Encouraging and integrating scientific research and technological advancements.
• Collaboration: Fostering teamwork among multidisciplinary teams and with external partners.
• Integrity: Upholding ethical principles in all activities and decisions.

Specialized Services

IPO Coimbra offers a wide range of specialized services in oncology, including:

• Medical Oncology
• Radiation Oncology
• Surgical Oncology
• Pediatric Oncology
• Palliative Care
• Diagnostic Imaging
• Pathology
• Genetic Counseling
• Clinical Trials and Research

IPO Coimbra, also known as the Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Coimbra, offers a wide range of specialized services focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and research of cancer. Here are some of the specialized services provided:

1. Oncology Services:

   • Medical Oncology
   • Radiation Oncology
   • Surgical Oncology

2. Diagnostic Services:

   • Radiology
   • Nuclear Medicine
   • Pathology and Laboratory Medicine

3. Supportive Care Services:

   • Palliative Care
   • Pain Management
   • Psycho-Oncology
   • Nutritional Support
   • Rehabilitation Services

4. Specialized Clinics:

   • Breast Cancer Clinic
   • Colorectal Cancer Clinic
   • Lung Cancer Clinic
   • Prostate Cancer Clinic
   • Gynecologic Oncology Clinic
   • Pediatric Oncology Clinic

5. Research and Clinical Trials:

   • Participation in national and international clinical trials
   • Translational research programs
   • Collaboration with research institutions and universities

6. Preventive Services:

   • Cancer Screening Programs
   • Genetic Counseling
   • Public Education and Awareness Campaigns

7. Surgical Services:

   • Minimally Invasive Surgery
   • Robotic Surgery
   • Reconstructive Surgery

8. Therapeutic Services:

   • Chemotherapy
   • Immunotherapy
   • Targeted Therapy
   • Hormone Therapy

IPO Coimbra, formally known as Instituto Português de Oncologia de Coimbra Francisco Gentil, EPE, is recognized for its high standards of quality in oncology care. The institution follows rigorous protocols and practices to ensure patient safety, effective treatment outcomes, and comprehensive cancer care. Here are some key aspects of its quality standards:

1. Accreditations and Certifications:

   • IPO Coimbra holds various national and international accreditations that validate its commitment to quality and excellence in healthcare.

2. Patient-Centered Care:

   • The hospital emphasizes a patient-centered approach, ensuring personalized care plans and treatments tailored to individual patient needs.

3. Multidisciplinary Teams:

   • IPO Coimbra employs a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and supportive care professionals, to provide holistic and coordinated care.

4. Advanced Medical Equipment:

   • The hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art medical technology and equipment, enabling precise diagnostics and advanced treatment options.

5. Continuous Improvement:

   • IPO Coimbra engages in continuous quality improvement initiatives, regularly reviewing and updating clinical practices and procedures to enhance patient outcomes.

6. Research and Innovation:

   • The institution is actively involved in clinical research and innovation, contributing to the advancement of oncology care and the development of new treatments.

IPO Coimbra, also known as the Portuguese Institute of Oncology of Coimbra, focuses on providing comprehensive oncological care, advancing cancer research, and promoting cancer education and prevention. The strategic direction and purpose of IPO Coimbra are centered around the following key areas:

1. Patient-Centered Care: Delivering high-quality, patient-centered care by integrating multidisciplinary approaches in diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up for cancer patients.

2. Research and Innovation: Fostering a strong research culture to drive innovation in oncology, including clinical trials and translational research to develop new treatment modalities and improve patient outcomes.

3. Education and Training: Providing education and training opportunities for healthcare professionals to ensure the highest standards of oncology practice and to disseminate knowledge on the latest advancements in cancer care.

4. Prevention and Awareness: Promoting cancer prevention and awareness through community outreach programs, screening initiatives, and public health campaigns to reduce the incidence and impact of cancer.

5. Quality and Safety: Ensuring the highest standards of quality and safety in all clinical and administrative processes, continually striving for excellence through regular evaluation and improvement initiatives.

6. Collaboration and Partnerships: Building strong collaborations and partnerships with national and international institutions to enhance the scope and impact of oncology care and research.

The Portuguese Institute of Oncology (IPO) of Coimbra has received several notable awards and recognitions. Key among these is the accreditation by the Organisation of European Cancer Institutes (OECI), which the IPO of Coimbra has obtained three times, most recently in 2023. This accreditation highlights the institution's adherence to high standards of cancer care, research, and patient management, placing it among the top cancer treatment centers in Europe. This accreditation reflects the commitment and professionalism of the IPO's staff and their dedication to providing excellent care for cancer patients​​.

Additionally, IPO Coimbra has been accredited by Caspe Healthcare Knowledge Systems (CHKS) since 2005. These recognitions reinforce the IPO’s status as a leading institution in oncology, emphasizing its quality of care, safety, and the effectiveness of its clinical practices​​.