The first phase of work for the improvement programme, designed to reduce wait times for patients arriving for emergency care and increase clinical spaces, is now underway.
A temporary ED entrance for patients has been created to the left of the main entrance to allow this work to take place. The new temporary entrance is clearly marked at the front of the building.
This £2million investment will help patients receive the right care, in the right place, more quickly. On average 8,000 patients attended the hospital ED every month. The creation of additional triage and treatment rooms will support faster care while a redesigned layout will make the department easier to navigate and create a more comfortable experience for patients and their families.
Richard Parker, Chief Operating Officer at The QEH, said: “This is essential investment to enhance the emergency care we can deliver here at The QEH. It will improve how quickly patients who arrive at our front door are treated and give an improved space for both our patients and staff.
“Plans for our New QEH are continuing, with work on our new multi-storey car park beginning very soon. Building a new hospital remains our focus for the future, however we must do all we can to give the best possible care to patients who need us now whilst that longer-term project takes place. These improvements will create a more efficient and responsive emergency department designed to meet demand.”
The improvement project will take place in phases to allow for the department to continue to provide care. An extension to the front of the current ED will be created, subject to planning permission.
The reconfigured area is expected to be completed and open to patients by April 2027.
Ends. Notes to editors; For media enquiries only, please contact Communications Team, media.enquiries@qehkl.nhs.uk or 01553 613216. For all other enquiries, please contact QEH Switchboard on 01553 613613.
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