Presentation of the Centre
Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Klinikos (VUH SK), founded in 1980 by Vilnius University and the Lithuanian Ministry of Health, is one of the leading healthcare, research, and academic institutions in the Baltic States.
The hospital comprises more than 36 specialised medical centres and three branches, including the National Cancer Centre (NCC). NCC operates as a branch of VUH SK and serves as Lithuania’s leading specialised oncology centre.
The integration of the clinical activities of the National Cancer Institute into VUH SK has been completed, establishing a joint Comprehensive Cancer Centre model in Lithuania. Governance structures were strengthened through the establishment of a Management Board and a Scientific and Education Board.
As a large multidisciplinary university hospital, VUH SK is committed to maintaining the highest standards in cancer prevention, diagnostics, treatment, and research. VUH SK and the NCC provide coordinated, patient-centred oncology services while strengthening interdisciplinary collaboration among clinicians, researchers, and academic staff.
Main Research Activities
The research strategy is based on consistent and integrated collaboration between VUH SK and its branch, the NCC, together with Vilnius University, the National Cancer Institute, and international partners.
Core principles:
- Precision oncology;
- Effective translation of research into clinical practice;
- Focus on patients and their relatives.
Strategic research areas:
- Personalised medicine research;
- Research in cancer predisposition, epidemiology, prevention, and early diagnosis;
- Digital oncology;
- Advanced cellular medicinal products, and haematopoietic stem cell transplantation;
- Theranostics research;
- Research on quality of life in cancer patients.
Core Facilities
Patients at VUH SK and the NCC have access to comprehensive cancer care services, including advanced diagnostics, molecular profiling, surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, stem cell transplantation, and supportive care.
The institution also provides biobanking services, specialised pathology and imaging facilities, multidisciplinary care, and comprehensive management of cancer comorbidities.
Education
As a major university hospital affiliated with Vilnius University, VUH SK and the NCC play a central role in the education and training of healthcare professionals at all career stages.
The institution offers extensive opportunities for undergraduate medical education, residency and fellowship programmes, continuing professional development, as well as doctoral and postdoctoral research.