Polyclinic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
🏥
polyclinic
[ˈpɒlɪklɪnɪk ]
Definition
healthcare facility
A polyclinic is a medical facility that offers a wide range of healthcare services, including preventive, diagnostic, and therapeutic services. It typically provides specialized care but is not limited to hospital services. Polyclinics serve as a middle ground between general practitioners and hospitals.
Synonyms
community health center, health clinic, medical center.
Examples of usage
- I got my vaccinations done at the local polyclinic.
- The polyclinic has a dedicated department for maternity care.
- Many polyclinics offer walk-in services for minor emergencies.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Healthcare Evolution
- Polyclinics emerged in the 19th century as a response to urbanization, providing accessible healthcare in cities.
- They aim to reduce hospital overcrowding by offering outpatient services for various medical specialties.
Global Perspectives
- In many countries, polyclinics serve as primary healthcare centers, often providing preventive services alongside treatment.
- Some regions use polyclinics to integrate alternative medicine with traditional practices, catering to diverse health beliefs.
Pop Culture
- Polyclinics have been depicted in several TV shows and movies as convenient places where characters go for quick medical advice.
- The term is sometimes humorously referenced in media as a hub for 'medical multitasking' where characters get various treatments at once.
Psychology
- The availability of multiple services in one place can alleviate patient anxiety by simplifying access to care.
- Research shows that patients often feel more comfortable discussing a variety of health issues in a single visit to a polyclinic.
Origin of 'polyclinic'
Main points about word origin
- The prefix 'poly-' comes from Greek, meaning 'many' or 'multiple'.
- The term 'clinic' originates from the Greek word 'klinein', which means 'to lean' and refers to leaning over the patient during treatment.
The term 'polyclinic' has its roots in the Greek words 'poly,' meaning 'many,' and 'klinein,' meaning 'to recline' or 'to bed.' This reflects the idea of a facility that offers numerous medical services all in one place. The concept of polyclinics surfaced in the late 19th century as a response to the growing need for accessible healthcare outside of hospital settings. The first modern polyclinics were established in Europe, particularly in Germany and Russia, where they were designed to provide comprehensive medical care to urban populations. Over the decades, polyclinics have evolved, incorporating advanced medical technologies and specialized treatments, becoming a cornerstone of community health services in various countries.