Worcester MP Robin Walker cut the ribbon on a dedicated new Theatre Admissions Unit (TAU) on Friday (9th March).
The TAU – which has been up and running since the start of February - means patients coming into hospital for surgery have a dedicated, comfortable space where medical assessments and examinations can be undertaken before their procedure takes place.
The new facility has six private consultation rooms and a dedicated seating area with comfortable chairs generously funded by the Friends of Worcestershire Royal Hospital. It is located just a short walk away from theatres.
Dr Julian Berlet, Consultant Anaesthetist and Divisional Medical Director for Specialised Clinical Services, said:
“We have been working on creating this dedicated space for over two years and we are delighted it is now open it as it will provide an enhanced experience for our patients, as well as improving efficiency on our wards and in our theatres.”
“Previously, prior to surgery patients had to wait to be admitted to a ward for their pre-operative assessments, but now this offers a dedicated space where they are admitted directly and can go through any concerns or queries with the surgeon, anaesthetist and nursing staff in private. Being located just a short distance from theatres, it also means that theatre lists can start promptly, avoiding any unnecessary delays.”
Amanda Moore, Deputy Divisional Director of Nursing for Specialised Clinical Services, added:
“The new TAU is great news for both patients and staff.”
“It offers a calm and quiet space where patients have more privacy and dignity, and enjoy a more efficient experience. For ward staff, it frees up their time to concentrate on patient care and discharging patients no longer in need of an acute hospital bed, which in turn improves patient flow through the whole hospital. We are delighted it is now up and running.”
Speaking after the official opening, Robin said:
“It was a privilege to open the new Theatre Admissions Unit, which will offer an important gateway space for those coming in for operations. Being admitted for an operation of any kind can be a stressful time, and having seen the facilities available in the new unit it is clear that this will offer a substantial improvement in the patient experience at Worcestershire Royal Hospital. The unit also adds to overall capacity and frees up much-needed ward space elsewhere in the hospital – clearly it is already making a huge difference to patients and staff alike.”