A hospital is a healthcare institution that provides medical and surgical treatment for patients. Hospitals typically have emergency departments, inpatient and outpatient services, diagnostic facilities, operating rooms, and a staff of healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and support staff. The goal of a hospital is to provide high-quality and effective medical care to patients in need. Hospitals may be public or private, non-profit or for-profit, and may specialize in specific areas of medicine such as pediatrics, oncology, or cardiology. The availability and quality of hospital services can vary greatly between countries and regions.