Welcome to Zollikerberg Hospital

When Klara Sternenstaub and Ina Schnusel wander through the corridors of Zollikerberg Hospital, they bring more with them than just music, magic and red noses. As visiting clowns, they give patients moments of laughter, connection and respite – right in the midst of what is often a stressful hospital routine. With great sensitivity, they interact with people in very different life situations, experiencing touching, and sometimes quiet, moments that linger long afterwards. In this interview, they explain how they came to do this special work, what they have learnt about people through it, and why a brief moment of light-heartedness can sometimes make such a difference.

Neonatology deals with the medical care of premature babies and unwell newborns who require special support. At the Department of Neonatology at Zollikerberg Hospital, premature babies from the 32nd week of gestation (wgs) are cared for. A wide range of specialised equipment is used in this care. It helps to stabilise vital functions, support development and give these little patients the best possible start in life.

Just over three months ago, Zollikerberg Hospital opened its new premises in the Haus zum Falken building at Stadelhofen station. Since then, the Zurich Women’s Emergency Clinic, Zurich Plastic Surgery and the Zollikerberg Breast Centre have been operating under one roof – in a building designed by Santiago Calatrava in the heart of Zurich. The aim of the new site was to bring established medical services together under one roof, to further strengthen interdisciplinary collaboration and to offer patients modern, easily accessible outpatient care. Three months after the launch, those in charge are taking stock of the situation.