The 23rd edition of Hospital da Bonecada takes place between April 20 and May 1, in the central square of the Colombo Shopping Centre in Lisbon, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., organized by the NOVA Medical School Student Association. The aim of this initiative is to eradicate the fear of the unknown and familiarize children with the hospital environment.
During this initiative, which is free to enter, children aged 3 to 10 are invited to bring their dolls and soft toys to be treated in 14 rooms designed by the students. These include the Dynamization Room, Triage, Doctor's Office, Disinfection, Operating Room, Laboratory, Nursing Office, Pharmacy, Dentist's Office, Medical Imaging and Radiotherapy Office, Physiotherapy Gym, Nutrition Room, Feelings Room and the Vision Room.
The theme of this year's Hospital da Bonecada is "Children and Difference" and this initiative aims to promote direct contact between university students and children, develop communications skills with the youngest and train more capable and humane health professionals.