Well equipped with x-ray rooms, MRI scanners, dentist surgeries and physical therapy rooms, the polyclinic of the athletes’ village was officially opened on Friday (22 June). The 3,500 square meter space, the largest in Olympic history, will be the resting place for athletes from all over the world.
“We have everything an athlete needs here in terms of both preventative and emergency care,” said João Grangeiro, director of medical services for Rio 2016. “Even though many countries will bring their own medical teams, here we have all the necessities to offer our support.”
As well as an image laboratory, the polyclinic also has the capacity to offer emergency care for up to 60 patients simultaneously and eight cryotherapy pools.
Some of the Games sponsors have supported the clinic’s creation, such as P&G, which provided the dental materials. General Electronic (GE) decorated the reception area and also advised on the relocation of the medical equipment – such as magnetic resonance and X-ray machines – which will be donated to public healthcare.
The polyclinic also has six emergency beds operating around the clock. If a surgical procedure is required, athletes will be sent to the Vitória hospital in nearby Barra da Tijuca.
About 5,000 volunteers will aid professionals in medical assistance for athletes, technical committees and the general public at Rio 2016 venues. While 112 health centres will be scattered across the city to add to the service on offer from the four public hospitals.
Swimming news courtesy of Rio 2016.