New Day Case Unit to boost number of elective surgeries at County Hospital

Work is underway at University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust (UHNM) on a brand-new, state-of-the-art Surgical Day Case Unit that will reduce waiting lists and improve patient experience.  

The purpose-built, 28-bed facility at County Hospital will play a key part of UHNM’s elective hub development at the Stafford site, which also includes the recently opened ambulatory Staffordshire Treatment Suite and North Midlands Hand Centre development.  The hub will provide low-complexity elective procedures to thousands of patients each year on a range of specialities including gynaecology, colorectal and breast.

The new Unit, due to open in Spring 2025, will almost double capacity from the existing 15 beds on Ward 8 to 28.

Helen Ashley, Director of Strategy and Transformation and Deputy Chief Executive at UHNM said: “We are extremely pleased to have started work on this fantastic purpose-built unit, enhancing County Hospital’s reputation as a hub for low-complexity elective procedures. By further improving and extending our surgical facilities at County Hospital, we will be able to offer thousands of patients each year with quicker access to day-case surgery, helping to improve their quality of life whilst reducing waiting lists.”

Julie Williams, Senior Sister said: “Patients can not only expect a brand-new, top-of-the-range unit that’s purpose built for day surgery, but also the same outstanding levels of care they currently receive on our platinum-rated ward.     

“After being involved in the planning and design process, our staff can’t wait to get in, we’re so excited. Working in a brand-new environment will boost morale and wellbeing and help attract new staff to County Hospital.”       

Helen Ashley said: “The Unit is another example of UHNM’s commitment to developing future activity at County Hospital.”  

Amanda Muzengi, Estates Support Officer said: “Our teams are working hard to bring these exciting plans to life whilst keeping disruption to patients, staff, and visitors to a minimum. The unit has been specially designed with the patient journey in mind, entering through one door and exiting through another. It has been specially designed the maximise patient efficiency and flow, as well as providing a bright, spacious, and welcoming environment. The reception area will also feature a vibrant ‘sky inside ceiling’ to improve the experience for patients and staff.”