New Specialist Networks Launched
The Catalan health service CatSalut has incorporated two new Clinical Expertise Units (XUEC) for rare diseases, focusing on hereditary retinal dystrophies and rare cardiomyopathies. These units are part of Catalonia’s network of specialised multidisciplinary services that coordinate care for people with rare conditions. The aim is to ensure rapid access to expert diagnosis and individualised treatment plans.
Vall d’Hebron and Bellvitge Lead Care
Vall d’Hebron University Hospital leads the new XUEC in rare immune-mediated and inherited eye diseases, particularly hereditary retinal dystrophies. It already hosts seven other XUECs and treats over 40,000 patients with rare diseases through more than 200 specialist professionals. The Hospital de Bellvitge coordinates the new cardiac network for rare cardiomyopathies, building on its role as a pioneer in treating hereditary forms of heart muscle disease using targeted therapies. Both hospitals are integrated into broader national and European reference systems, including Spain’s CSUR centres and the EU’s 20 European Reference Networks (ERNs).
These networks guarantee a high level of expertise and allow coordinated access so patients receive early diagnoses and tailored care.
What This Means for Patients
Patients across Catalonia will benefit from faster referrals, standardised diagnostic pathways, and access to clinical trials and advanced treatments. The expansion brings the total number of XUECs in Catalonia to 14, reinforcing the region’s model of networked, equitable care for rare diseases. Care is now structured to follow patients throughout their lives, from childhood to adulthood, with transition programmes and integrated information systems like the ÚNICAS platform linking specialist centres.
Primary sources: govern.cat. Reported by hospital.vallhebron.com, vallhebron.com, clinicbarcelona.org, aldia.cat, orpha.net, lamanyana.cat, ciberisciii.es, europapress.es, redaccionmedica.com, bellvitgehospital.cat, lavanguardia.com, rtvc.es, Europa Press Barcelona.
