New Primary Care area in use to improve patient experience

The first phase of a QEH Emergency Department revamp – aimed at improving patient experience – has been completed.

The alterations provide a better environment for patients to be assessed and treated and for staff to work in, with the benefit of improving the flow of patients.

Three cubicles have been created in the Primary Care area, which manages minor ailments and injuries seen in the busy ED department. A former waiting area has been reconfigured to form two cubicles with examination couches and another for eye examinations.

Emergency Department Practitioners Allison Boughnimi and Hannah McGill are pleased with the changes, as they can assess and treat more patients and the new area will help to provide a timely service for our patients.

Allison, who has more than 30 years’ experience in the department said: “It should enhance the flow because we have a dedicated area for Primary Care patients to be treated.”

Further scheduled work in the coming months includes improving the ambulance offload area and the reception foyer.

Emergency Department Matron Pamela Chapman said:  “The completion of the Primary Care area has created more space within the rest of the Emergency Department.

“The aim is to improve patient experience and increase to the flow through the department.  This was a great first step towards what will be much-improved facilities for our patients and staff.”