Qatar Foundation’s Sidra Medical and Research Center, set to open in 2011, will be among the finest and most technologically advanced in the world. Together with WCMC-Q, Sidra will form an academic medical center of world-class standards within Education City.

Now under construction on a site to the north of the Medical College, Sidra is designed by renowned architect Cesar Pelli. Constructed of steel, glass and white ceramic tile, the dramatic hospital structure will have three atriums that serve as indoor healing gardens and divide it into three main sections.

Optimal use will be made of technology in support of clinical, administrative and research functions in the all-digital facility. This includes the use of robotics and computer-aided surgery and diagnostics, advanced digital imaging, and integrated patient information systems.

Sidra will provide specialty care for women and children, with select medical and surgical services for all adults. The infrastructure allows for an initial complement of approximately 380 beds and the possible expansion to 550 in a later phase. It is envisaged that WCMC-Q’s faculty will combine teaching at the Medical College with clinical practice and research at Sidra, and our graduates may pursue further training and careers in the specialties of their choice there.

Biomedical research will be funded by a nearly $8 billion endowment, and will bring together Sidra, Weill Cornell in Qatar and the U.S., Hamad Medical Corporation, the National Health Authority and other potential affiliates to help build the nation’s scientific expertise and resources through a coordinated research program. Three key areas have been identified as the focus of Sidra’s research activities: pregnancy health and infertility, pediatric developmental and preventive health, and women’s health.

 http://www.sidra.org