Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de La Réunion

The Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de La Réunion is a public university hospital that delivers a comprehensive range of medical services to the population of the French overseas department of Réunion. It provides emergency care, specialised surgery, maternity and paediatric services, as well as ongoing treatment for chronic conditions, all integrated with medical education and clinical research activities. As a teaching institution, it hosts medical students and residents from the University of La Réunion and supports continuing professional development for health professionals.

Situated in Saint-Denis, the CHU de La Réunion functions as the primary referral centre for the island, receiving patients from across the territory who require advanced diagnostics or interventions not available in smaller local facilities. Its role is reinforced by its affiliation with the regional health agency, which coordinates public health initiatives and ensures alignment with national healthcare strategies. The hospital’s scale enables it to maintain specialised units such as intensive care, cardiology and oncology that serve both routine and complex cases.

Distinguishing attributes of the CHU de La Réunion include its dual mandate of patient care and academic training, positioning it at the forefront of medical innovation in the Indian Ocean region. It actively participates in public health surveillance and response efforts, contributing to regional preparedness for epidemics and other health threats. The hospital’s experience with cybersecurity incidents, such as the early‑detected attack in February 2023, highlights its commitment to protecting critical health infrastructure while maintaining continuity of care.

Structurally, the CHU de La Réunion is an Établissement public de santé, fully funded and overseen by the French Ministry of Health and the local health authority. It operates as part of the national public hospital network, adhering to French regulations governing healthcare governance, quality and safety. This public status ensures that its mission remains focused on serving the community rather than pursuing commercial objectives.