From cutting edge technology to calm and spacious surroundings, a new £8m Urology Investigation and Treatment Centre at Princess Royal Hospital in Haywards Heath is transforming the care and experience of patients with urology conditions.
Since the centre opened in October last year, nearly 4,000 patients across Sussex have been seen, tested and treated for urology conditions, from life-threatening cancers to benign diseases more quickly, and in fewer hospital visits.
Run by University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust, the centre can accommodate around 50 to 70 patients a day, some who attend the ‘one-stop clinic’.
In these clinics, patients are cared for by specialist nurses and consultants who are part of a multi-disciplinary team all in the same location.
This means patients no longer need multiple appointments in different locations, which can sometimes take weeks or months, and are instead assessed, treated and sent home to recover within a few hours.
The centre also features a newly refurbished reception and large waiting rooms with scenic views of the hospital’s natural surroundings, making it a calm place for patients waiting to undergo different types of procedures.
A patient who recently attended the new centre said: “I just wanted to say how great my appointment was this morning, the people on reception were lovely, and the nurses and doctor that I saw were great, what an amazing service.”
Sally Goodman, lead Nurse for Urology, said: “New treatment rooms and equipment has enabled us to undertake new minimally invasive procedures, which avoid general anaesthetic and inpatient stays, enhancing the care for patients.”
Martin Glazebrook, Senior Capital Development Manager, said: “It’s a real pleasure to work on projects that you know will make such a difference to the experience of patients.”
“This transformative new building is not only beneficial for patient care with facilities including an ultrasound, laser treatment, cystoscopy and consultancy rooms, but is also great for staff, with amenities including separate nurse stations, storage areas, modern open plan office space and a seminar training room for medical students.”
The better working environment is also helping to recruit staff, as the team grows to help manage the increased level of clinical activity, new procedures, complex interventions, and different models of working, they have seen in recent years.
Sally Goodman, lead Nurse for Urology, added: “With our lovely new pristine environment to work in we have found it easier to recruit and are able to offer professionals the opportunity to join a cohesive and supportive multidisciplinary team, with medical and nursing expertise in one space to deliver excellent care to patients.”
The team has grown by over 50%, to include more clinical nurse specialists, other nursing roles, allied health professionals and administrative colleagues.
The Urology Investigation and Treatment Centre is part of a national programme by NHS England designed to improve the treatment and care of patients through in-depth review of services, evaluation, and a data-driven evidence base to support positive and sustainable change.
