A DEDICATED Theatre Admissions Unit (TAU) was officially opened at the Worcestershire Royal Hospital by MP Robin Walker on Friday.
The TAU has been up and running since the start of February, providing a dedicated and comfortable place for people to have their medical assessments and examinations before they undergo their procedure.
The unit, located just a short walk away from the theatres, has six private consultation rooms and a dedicated seating area with comfortable chairs which were generously funded by the Friends of the Worcestershire Royal Hospital.
Dr Julian Berlet, Consultant Anaesthetist and Divisional Medical Director for Specialised Clinical Services, said the project was more than two years in the making, adding he was delighted it was open to provide an enhanced experience for patients and to improve efficiency.
“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.”
Its position near the theatres also means the 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.”
Mr Walker said: “Congratulations everyone, it’s great to hear what a difference this unit is already making to patients.
“So I am delighted to be able to officially open the unit.”
For more on the opening of the TAU, visit the Trust’s Facebook page @WorcsAcuteNHS.
