Hospital Municipal de Natal begins pediatric operations

The Hospital Municipal de Natal São Padre Pio has commenced operations in the Cidade Satélite neighborhood of Natal, starting with a phased opening of 18 pediatric beds. These include 12 clinical ward beds and six psychosocial pediatric beds for children and adolescents requiring clinical or surgical care.

According to Municipal Health Secretary Geraldo Pinho, the unit is not an open-door facility; all admissions and elective procedures, including exams, must be processed through the municipal regulation system. The hospital is also launching a diagnostic imaging center offering echocardiograms, X-rays, and ultrasounds for patients already on the waiting list.

In a separate regional development, the Hospital Marques Basto (HMB) in Parnaíba is engaging in strategic dialogue with the Ministry of Health and Maranhão state officials. The goal is to establish sustainable financing and organized patient flows for Maranhão residents currently receiving treatment in Parnaíba, ensuring continuity of care during potential transitions.