Hospital Universitario 12 De Octubre

Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre Visiting Hours, Visitor Information, and Travel Guide – Madrid

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre (HU12O) is a cornerstone of Madrid’s healthcare system, renowned for its clinical excellence, innovative research, and architectural significance. Since its opening in 1973—named in honor of Spain’s National Day, October 12—the hospital has provided comprehensive care to more than half a million residents in southern Madrid. Blending modern design with a legacy of community service, HU12O is not only a vital medical institution but also a symbol of public health advancement and community engagement.

This guide offers up-to-date, detailed information for all visitors: from family members and healthcare professionals to students and tourists interested in Madrid’s medical and cultural landmarks. Here you’ll find essential details about visiting hours, access protocols, facilities, accessibility, transportation, and practical tips for a safe and respectful visit.

For the latest updates, always consult the official Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre website, Madrid Metro information, and the Madrid Tourist Guide.

Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre building in Madrid

About Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre
Hospital History and Cultural Significance
Campus Infrastructure & Facilities
Visiting Hours & Access Information
Tickets, Entry, and Visitor Passes
Guided Tours, Educational Visits, and Community Events
Accessibility and Visitor Services
Travel & Directions
Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips
FAQs
Recommendations for a Respectful Visit
Notable Achievements & Research
References & Further Reading

About Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre

Located in the Usera district, HU12O is among Madrid’s largest and most advanced public hospitals, serving as a referral center for complex medical care, teaching, and biomedical research. The campus includes:

Hospital General: Main adult inpatient and surgical care.
Hospital Materno-Infantil: Specialized maternal, neonatal, pediatric, and adolescent units.
Edificio Azul & Oncología Radioterápica Pavilion: Oncology and radiation therapy.
Centro de Actividades Ambulatorias (CAA): Outpatient and day hospital services.

HU12O is also home to the i+12 Biomedical Research Institute, collaborating with the Complutense University of Madrid and other leading institutions (i+12 Research Institute).

Hospital History and Cultural Significance

Founded in 1973 during Madrid’s urban expansion, HU12O was designed as a modern university hospital, integrating advanced clinical services, medical education, and research. Its name—12 de Octubre—celebrates Spain’s National Day, symbolizing a commitment to public health and social progress.

The hospital has received multiple awards for innovation, digital transformation, and research output (comunidad.madrid). Its architecture and ongoing renovations reflect Madrid’s investment in healthcare and urban development (jaspers.eib.org).

Campus Infrastructure & Facilities

The HU12O campus features modern, accessible buildings with spacious corridors, elevators, ramps, adapted restrooms, and clear signage. Facilities include:

Over 1,200 beds and 38 operating rooms
Comprehensive emergency department (over 260,000 visits/year)
Specialized units for oncology, cardiology, pediatrics, and more
On-site pharmacies, cafeterias, waiting areas with Wi-Fi, and information desks
Spiritual and emotional support services, including chaplaincy and quiet rooms

Recent renovations have prioritized patient comfort, energy efficiency, and digital wayfinding (jaspers.eib.org).

Visiting Hours & Access Information

General Visiting Hours: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM daily (may vary by department)
Pediatric and Maternal Units: Flexible hours for parents/caregivers (confirm in advance)
Emergency Department: Restricted, regulated visits; check current policies
Special Events & Tours: Hours may differ; always confirm with the hospital before your visit

For department-specific visiting hours, consult the official visitor information or call the hospital’s main reception.

Tickets, Entry, and Visitor Passes

Admission: No tickets or entrance fees are required for family or authorized visitors
Visitor Passes: Issued at main entrances; bring identification and patient details for streamlined access
General Public Access: Restricted to protect patient privacy; exceptions made for educational groups or during special events

International visitors should carry valid ID and know the patient’s full name and ward. All visitors must comply with hospital protocols for safety and privacy.

Guided Tours, Educational Visits, and Community Events

Public Tours: Not regularly available due to privacy; exceptions during city-wide events (e.g., Open House Madrid) or health awareness campaigns (esmadrid.com)
Educational Visits: Medical students and professionals can arrange guided tours through the education or research department
Community Engagement: HU12O organizes health education seminars, prevention campaigns, and wellness initiatives open to the public

Check the hospital’s events calendar or contact the visitor office for current opportunities.

Accessibility and Visitor Services

HU12O is fully accessible for all visitors:

Wheelchair access throughout the campus
Elevators, ramps, and adapted restrooms
Reserved parking for reduced mobility
Multilingual signage and digital directories
Translation and interpretation services available upon request (spainist.com)

For additional assistance, inquire at the hospital’s information desks.

Travel & Directions

Address: Avenida de Córdoba, s/n, 28041 Madrid
Metro: Line 3, Hospital 12 de Octubre station (Madrid Metro)
Bus: Lines 6, 55, 78, and others
Taxi & Ride-Share: Designated drop-off areas at main entrances
Parking: Limited; public transport is highly recommended (Madrid City Council)

Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips

Enhance your visit by exploring the surrounding area:

Parque de Pradolongo: Urban park for relaxation and recreation
Parque Lineal del Manzanares: Scenic riverside walking paths
Carabanchel District: Historic neighborhood with local dining and cultural sites

Travel Tips:

Use public transit to avoid parking challenges
Visit outside peak hours for easier access
Check for local events or festivals that may impact traffic or visitor policies

FAQs

Q: Can tourists visit Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre as a landmark?
A: While primarily a medical facility, its architecture and history can be appreciated from the exterior. General tourism inside is limited, but special open days may allow broader access.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Not routinely, but special events and academic visits can be arranged. Check the event calendar.

Q: What are the visiting hours for patients’ families?
A: Usually from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM, but confirm with specific departments.

Q: Is the hospital accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, the campus is designed for full accessibility.

Q: How can I find a specific unit or service?
A: Use the interactive directories or ask at an information desk.

Q: Is parking available?
A: Limited; use public transport if possible.

Q: Can I get language support?
A: Yes, interpretation is available upon request.

Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Only in public external areas; always request permission before photographing indoors.

Recommendations for a Respectful Visit

Confirm visiting hours and current restrictions before arrival
Use public transportation for convenience
Request language or accessibility assistance if needed
Follow hospital hygiene and conduct guidelines (sanitize hands, use masks where required, maintain quiet)
Respect patient privacy—no unauthorized photography or filming
Participate in community or educational events if interested

Notable Achievements & Research

HU12O is consistently ranked among Spain’s top five hospitals and the world’s top 100 for patient care, research, and innovation (oeci.eu). As a leading oncology and transplant center, it produces over 1,200 scientific articles annually and manages hundreds of research projects through the i+12 Institute. The hospital’s digital transformation and commitment to public health make it a national benchmark (jaspers.eib.org).