The Hospital Internacional de Colombia: Medical innovation transforming healthcare in Latin America

- The Hospital Internacional de Colombia (HIC) stands out for its ability to address a wide range of complex diseases, offering specialized services in cardiology, oncology, neurology, pulmonology, orthopedics, gynecology, and more. Its multidisciplinary approach prioritizes patient well-being.
- From highly precise procedures such as robotic orthopedic surgery to advanced pulmonary rehabilitation programs and personalized cancer treatments, the HIC is positioned as a model for comprehensive disease management.
- The HIC’s International Office ensures a seamless experience for foreign patients, solidifying its reputation as a global destination for high-quality medical care.
Bucaramanga, Colombia, January 2025. The Hospital Internacional de Colombia (HIC) stands as one of the most advanced medical complexes in Latin America, renowned for integrating cutting-edge research, state-of-the-art technology, and highly personalized patient care. Its leadership was reaffirmed in 2024 when it was ranked as the sixth-best hospital in Latin America by the Latam Business Conference (LBC) and IntelLat rankings, establishing itself as a model of innovation and excellence in the regional healthcare landscape.
HIC Cardiovascular Institute began its journey in 1997 with the opening of its Cardiovascular Institute, setting a milestone in specialized medical care. This center became the first in Colombia to earn Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation in 2009 and the first hospital in the country to receive national accreditation from ICONTEC. With 14,300 square meters of infrastructure, it specialized in highly complex cardiovascular procedures, including ventricular assist device implantation and comprehensive heart failure management across all stages of life. The HIC Cardiovascular Institute is widely recognized as a leading institution for treating congenital heart diseases and pediatric surgeries, earning international acclaim.
Artificial Heart Implantation Milestone In 2014, the hospital made history in Latin America by performing the region’s first artificial heart implantation. This achievement not only extended patients' life expectancy but also set innovative standards in managing advanced cardiac diseases, redefining treatment possibilities and improving quality of life in the region. Moreover, it remains the only institution in Latin America with Heart Failure and Artificial Heart Centers of Excellence accredited by JCI, solidifying its leadership in this specialty.
Expansion and Advanced Medical Complex The institution has expanded its offerings to include more than 60 medical specialties, establishing the Hospital Internacional de Colombia medical complex. Spanning over 86,000 square meters, this modern facility combines cutting-edge technology and specialized multidisciplinary teams to deliver exceptional services.

Comprehensive Care and Advances in Medical Specialties
The HIC Cancer Institute offers an integrated approach to oncology, combining precise diagnostics with personalized treatments. Its multidisciplinary team addresses a wide range of cases, from solid tumors to hematological disorders, utilizing tools such as outpatient and inpatient chemotherapy, bone marrow transplants, and specialized surgeries, including orthopedic oncology, mastology, gastrointestinal surgery, and reconstructive procedures. Additionally, the institute provides psychological, nutritional, and psychiatric support programs, alongside a pediatric unit designed to create a child-friendly environment during treatments.
In neurology and neurosurgery, HIC has developed specific programs for epilepsy and Parkinson’s disease, as well as a specialized emergency neurology service. Its recognition as an Advanced Stroke Center by the World Stroke Organization (WSO) and the Ibero-American Society of Cerebrovascular Diseases underscores its capacity to treat critical cases. The hospital also addresses autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis, cognitive disorders such as Alzheimer’s, and neurological issues including migraines and sleep disorders. The Neurological Intensive Care Unit is equipped to manage complex conditions, ensuring specialized care.
In pulmonology, HIC treats complex respiratory diseases, including pulmonary hypertension, pulmonary embolism, lung cancer, and obstructive conditions like asthma and COPD. Pulmonary rehabilitation programs are key to aiding patients with chronic diseases or recovering from acute conditions. Specialized care for pediatric asthma and pulmonary hypertension demonstrates the hospital's commitment to comprehensive treatment.
Orthopedics and traumatology benefit from technological advancements like Mako robotic surgery, enabling highly precise procedures such as hip and knee replacements. This approach reduces recovery times and minimizes complications. HIC also provides care for sports injuries, spinal deformities, and pediatric orthopedic conditions, with a team specializing in complex cases.
The Women’s Care Institute focuses on gynecology and obstetrics, emphasizing high-risk pregnancies and advanced surgical procedures. It ensures specialized care throughout pregnancy and postpartum stages, prioritizing patient safety and health through rigorous medical follow-up.

The plastic, reconstructive, and aesthetic surgery department offers treatments to correct congenital malformations, traumatic injuries, and aesthetic procedures aimed at improving patients' quality of life. Services include breast reconstruction and advanced interventions for skin cancer, ensuring functional outcomes through cutting-edge techniques.
Pain Management and Palliative Care In pain management and palliative care, HIC addresses the needs of patients with advanced diseases. This program, certified by JCI as “Pain-Free,” integrates medical, surgical, and emotional support treatments, focusing on alleviating suffering and promoting the well-being of patients and their families.
International Recognition
The Hospital Internacional de Colombia has garnered prestigious international recognitions, reflecting its commitment to quality and excellence in medical care. Among these is the HIMSS EMRAM 7 certification, which measures the maturity level of medical information systems. As the first hospital in Colombia to achieve this standard, HIC demonstrates its ability to integrate cutting-edge technology into clinical and administrative processes, optimizing patient care.
Additionally, the hospital received the Value-Based Healthcare (VBHC) Award, recognizing initiatives that combine clinical excellence with operational efficiency. HIC excelled in this category through its management of acute myocardial infarction patients, achieving a hospital mortality rate of 3.95%, four points below international standards. This result highlights the effectiveness of its medical protocols and its dedication to providing high-impact, sustainable healthcare solutions. In 2024, HIC also earned the prestigious "Five-Star Hospital" designation from Newsweek and Statista.
A Future of Continuous Innovation
To meet the growing demand of international patients, HIC has established an International Office to provide comprehensive support. This service assists patients with every aspect of their care journey, including appointment coordination, translations, accommodation, and transportation arrangements, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience. The office strengthens HIC’s position as a global healthcare reference.
The institution is recognized for its multidisciplinary approach, where specialists from diverse fields collaborate. This model has enabled HIC to excel in managing complex cases, achieving remarkably low complication and infection rates, and delivering clinical outcomes that surpass international standards. The medical team combines human quality with technical expertise, ensuring shorter hospital stays and a patient-centered experience.