Bellinzona Medical Centre: same-day procedures and return home

Context

In brief

• New healthcare facility in Bellinzona
• Procedures and same-day return home
• Open to the public on May 9, 2026

Key facts

• What: New Bellinzona Castello Medical Center
• When: Open to the public on May 9, 2026
• Where: Bellinzona, Canton Ticino
• Who: Management added by Jacopo Dandrea
• Amount: 2,500 square meters of surface area

BELLINZONA - 'You shouldn’t think of it as being in a hospital. You arrive, have the procedure, and then go home.' These are the words of Manuela Androtti, a patient recently operated on her right wrist and elbow, describing her experience at the new Bellinzona Castello Medical Center. The healthcare facility, opened in September 2025, will welcome the public on Saturday, May 9, with a day dedicated to visits and exploring the spaces. Located in the heart of the city, just steps away from the historic center, the new Center occupies a 2,500 square meter building completely renovated and modernized over the past two years.

A reality aiming to become a reference point for the Sopraceneri, mainly thanks to a feature considered practically unique in the region. 'The particularity of this Medical Center is certainly the presence of an operating block with two rooms dedicated to outpatient surgery,' explains Jacopo Dandrea, deputy director of the Bellinzona Castello Medical Center. 'Currently, the rooms are mainly used for procedures related to hand, wrist, and elbow surgery, as well as everything concerning ophthalmology. However, the structure is already prepared to host other surgical specialties. This is a rather unique reality in the Sopraceneri, especially because it is not directly connected to a hospital.'

The upper floors host ophthalmological, orthopedic, and multispecialty consultations, as well as radiology, ergotherapy, and physiotherapy services. An approach designed to simplify the patients' journey. 'The advantage of this surgical platform is precisely the comprehensive care,' emphasizes Marco Guidi, hand surgeon at Ars Medica. 'The patient experiences a much lighter process compared to other centers. They arrive, are prepared for the procedure, are operated on, and then accompanied to an adjacent space dedicated to recovery.'

Not just medical and technical aspects. The center has also worked on the patient's sensory experience. 'They can choose the music, images, and even the colors of the environment. There is also a discussion related to chromotherapy. All of this makes the day of the operation less traumatic.' Swiss Visio Bellinzona, a specialized ophthalmological center, has also found space within the new structure. 'Here, we deal with all major ophthalmological pathologies and various subspecialties,' explains Leandro Oliverio, head clinician of Swiss Visio Bellinzona. 'The particularity is the presence of lasers for refractive surgery directly within the structure.'

Sensory experience and integrated services

The Bellinzona Castello Medical Center not only offers advanced medical services but also aims to improve the overall patient experience. The facility allows patients to personalize the environment during the procedure, choosing the music, images, and colors. This approach, which also includes elements of chromotherapy, aims to make the day of the operation less traumatic.

Swiss Visio Bellinzona, a specialized ophthalmological center, is an integral part of the new structure. 'Here, we deal with all major ophthalmological pathologies and various subspecialties,' explains Leandro Oliverio, head clinician of Swiss Visio Bellinzona. 'The particularity is the presence of lasers for refractive surgery directly within the structure.'

Ottavio Bernasconi, medical director of Swiss Visio Bellinzona, emphasizes the centralization of services as one of the main advantages. 'The ease of access, reduced movements, and the presence of dedicated staff represent a great added value for patients.'

The public can visit the new Bellinzona Castello Medical Center during the open day scheduled for Saturday, May 9, from 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM. An opportunity to discover the new spaces up close, meet the specialists, and learn about a reality that aims to redefine the concept of outpatient surgery in the Sopraceneri.

Operational details

Advantages for cross-border workers

The new Centromedico Bellinzona Castello represents a significant opportunity for cross-border workers in Ticino. The possibility of undergoing outpatient surgical procedures without having to stay in the hospital offers a considerable practical advantage. Cross-border workers can return home on the same day, minimizing recovery times and absences from work.

Comparison with traditional facilities

Unlike traditional hospital facilities, Centromedico Bellinzona Castello offers a lighter and less traumatic experience. Patients do not have to face long hospital stays but can quickly return to their daily activities. This is particularly advantageous for cross-border workers, who often have to manage work and family commitments on both sides of the border.

Procedures and services offered

Centromedico Bellinzona Castello offers a wide range of services, including specialist consultations in ophthalmology, orthopedics, and multispecialty care, as well as radiology, ergotherapy, and physiotherapy services. The facility is equipped with two operating rooms dedicated to outpatient surgery, with a particular focus on hand, wrist, elbow surgery, and ophthalmology.

Customization of the experience

One of the most innovative aspects of Centromedico Bellinzona Castello is the ability to customize the patient's experience. Patients can choose the music, images, and colors of the environment during the procedure, making the day of the operation less traumatic. This approach, which also includes elements of chromotherapy, aims to improve patient comfort and well-being.

Accessibility and convenience

The central location of Centromedico Bellinzona Castello, in the heart of Bellinzona and just a few steps from the historic center, makes it easily accessible. This is particularly important for cross-border workers, who often have to travel between their workplace and residence. The facility also offers parking and transportation services, making access even more convenient for patients.

Visit opportunities

The public will be able to visit the new Centromedico Bellinzona Castello during the open day scheduled for Saturday, May 9th, from 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM. This is a unique opportunity to discover the new spaces up close, meet the specialists, and learn about a reality that aims to redefine the concept of outpatient surgery in Sopraceneri.

Recommended tools

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Key points

What to do to book an appointment

To book an appointment or procedure at Centromedico Bellinzona Castello, cross-border workers can contact the facility directly through the official website or by calling the dedicated phone number. It is advisable to check availability and waiting times for the different specializations.

Required Documents

At the time of booking, it is important to have the necessary documents on hand, including the health card, the G permit, and any previous medical reports. These documents will help the medical staff plan the procedure or visit as best as possible.

Preparation for the Procedure

Before the procedure, patients will receive detailed instructions on how to prepare. This may include indications on what to eat, which medications to take, and which activities to avoid. Following these instructions is fundamental to ensuring a safe and effective procedure.

Day of the Procedure

On the day of the procedure, patients must arrive at the facility a little earlier than the scheduled time. It is important to bring all the necessary documents and follow the instructions of the medical staff. After the procedure, patients can go home the same day, unless there are complications.

Follow-up and Recovery

After the procedure, patients will receive detailed instructions on how to manage their recovery. This may include physiotherapy exercises, medications to take, and periodic check-ups. Following these instructions is fundamental to ensuring a quick and complication-free recovery.

Use the Healthcare Cost Calculator

To get an idea of the healthcare costs associated with procedures at Centromedico Bellinzona Castello, cross-border workers can use the healthcare cost calculator available on the website. This tool helps estimate costs and plan medical expenses as best as possible.

Contact Customer Service

For further information or assistance, cross-border workers can contact the customer service of Centromedico Bellinzona Castello. The staff is available to answer questions and provide support if needed.

Source: tio.ch