This week marked an important milestone in the build of our first UHSussex Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC) at Southlands, with the delivery of a brand-new CT scanner – the first large imaging item to be accepted for installation.
The scanner will be used by patients awaiting a diagnosis for a wide range of conditions, including those on cancer pathways. As the first static scanner on site at Southlands, replacing the mobile scanner in place currently, patients will be able to enjoy much easier access to hospital facilities.
Now that installation is complete, the machine will be thoroughly tested by medical physics and the room will be finalised ready for use by the first patient when Phase One opens to patients in the Autumn. This will include MRI, X-Ray, as well as CT services – with the MRI expected for delivery on the 3 July.
Centre build gathering pace
Construction of the multi-million-pound centre, which is funded thanks to national investment through NHS England’s CDC programme, continues at pace.
Following the Phase One opening, work will start on Phase Two, refurbishing the current radiology department to provide additional on-site ultrasound, gynaecological investigations, lung function testing and echo services.
Speaking about the programme, Siobhan Murray, Managing Director for Unscheduled Care and SRO for the CDC at Southlands, said:
“The aim is to create a true one-stop model of care, where full diagnostic pathways can be delivered away from an acute hospital setting, improving efficiency and patient experience. Work is progressing well, and we hope the end result will be hugely positive for Southlands.”
To deliver the additional capacity, we will be recruiting for extra staffing and have expanded our international radiographer recruitment programme. There will also be opportunities for colleagues to rotate through more areas, and particularly with Phase Two, there is scope for advanced practice roles for non-medical staff.
We will continue to keep colleagues and patients updated as we prepare for the opening.