Tbilisi Republican Hospital to be replaced by new medical centre

Tbilisi, Georgia: The Government of Georgia has decided to demolish the existing building of the Tbilisi Republican Hospital, also known as the Central University Clinic named after Academician Nikoloz Kipshidze, and build a new, multidisciplinary medical centre in its place.

The decision was based on the clinic’s extensive problems and challenges and five expert findings from Georgian and international specialists. The studies have clearly shown the difficult situation in the clinic, which does not meet the global standards of health care.

According to the experts, the reconstruction of the building is mostly impossible and unprofitable due to the poor infrastructure, outdated equipment, low quality of services, and financial difficulties. The safety of the clinic staff, patients, and visitors is also a major concern, as strong winds and falling glass damaged the building.

The Labor Inspection Service and the Regulatory Agency inspected the clinic’s safety. They found that building elements constantly fall from the severely damaged facade inside and outside the clinic, posing a risk of injury. The Labor Inspectorate ordered the closure of the danger zones and the restriction of movement in the clinic.

The Prime Minister of Georgia, Irakli Garibashvili, announced the plan to break up the old structure and build a new, multidisciplinary, high-tech medical facility, a modern state clinic meeting international standards and covering various medical disciplines. The new clinic will also maintain a university clinic’s status, allowing future doctors to integrate into clinical activities.

The new clinic will have a capacity of over 500 beds, including an outpatient clinic, a day hospital, a children’s oncology and haematology centre, a central blood bank, and other essential facilities. 

The project will be carried out in collaboration with the World Bank, which will provide financial and technical assistance. The Ministry of Health is starting the procurement procedures for dismantling the existing venue, and the design works for the new clinic.

The Government of Georgia stated that demolishing and replacing the Tbilisi Republican Hospital is necessary to improve the health care system and the well-being of the Georgian people.