This week we have seen renal dialysis services move from the Princess Royal Hospital (PRH) to a new community-based unit, which will provide better facilities and a more spacious environment for our patients.
We have worked with our renal patients, carers and the public to shape the future of renal dialysis services and they are now in the same building as the new Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC), which opened its doors in October.
The state-of-the-art facility in Hollinswood House, Stafford Park, Telford, is more than double the size of the existing unit and will provide care for lower risk dialysis patients, with acute services remaining at Royal Shrewsbury Hospital.
The move, which creates more clinical space for our patients and colleagues, allows the Trust to meet not only the current level of dialysis demand but also future demand.
I would like to thank colleagues, patients and the public who have been involved in the move to this wonderful off-site location, which will make accessing the care they need so much easier.
The CDC is the first in the county and provides non-urgent diagnostic tests and blood tests for patients across the whole of Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin.
We are also improving the experience for patients, visitors and colleagues with the re-development of the main entrance at PRH.
As part of the upgrade, the Trust has welcomed a dedicated Market Express, offering access to a range of food and convenience items seven days a week, providing a greater choice for patients, visitors and staff.
The facilities offered with this first phase of the development enhance the catering provision already in place, including in the evenings.
The two-storey development will also provide modern workspaces for our valued clinical and administration teams and they are expected to open in the coming weeks.
Phase two includes the opening of the dedicated planned care hub in early 2024, including modern theatres and patient consultation rooms. This will enable the Trust to provide more day case surgery, reducing waiting times and improving the patient experience for our communities.
Finally, would you like to help lead the Trust as it is seeking two Associate Non-executive Directors?
It is a fantastic opportunity for two senior people to share their talents and expertise to make a positive difference to the those within our county and mid-Wales.
We are looking for a candidate with a strong clinical background and another with either digital or voluntary sector experience.
They will help shape the future of the Trust and their roles will include holding senior managers accountable, providing constructive challenge, and offering valuable advice. They should have a deep commitment to creating positive change in the delivery of patient care.
If you are interested in applying for either of the roles, please visit the NHS England website here (www.england.nhs.uk/non-executive-opportunities). The closing date for applications is 11am on Thursday 7 December.