Monday 16 December 2013

Stephen Metcalfe MP opens new ward at Basildon Hospital



Stephen Metcalfe, local MP for South Basildon and East Thurrock, and John Baron, MP for Basildon and Billericay, recently joined staff and supporters at Basildon Hospital to officially open the new 28 bed Burstead Ward.

Chief Nurse for Basildon and Brentwood Clinical, Lisa Allen, also took part in the ribbon cutting ceremony to the open the ward which forms part of the Hospital’s plan to increase the number of beds to meet the demand for emergency inpatient care this winter.

The guests were welcomed by Chief Executive of the Trust, Clare Panniker, who thanked all those involved in the speedy completion of the project. She said:  “It has been a great team effort. The additional 28 beds and the investment we have made in more staff will help to ensure our patients receive excellent and safe care, particularly during the busy winter period.”

Stephen Metcalfe MP said: “It is a credit to everyone involved that this project came together in four months, and I thank them on behalf of the people of South Basildon and East Thurrock.  We know the Trust has had its challenges, but I think it is turning a corner and I have high expectations for the future of this hospital.”
  
The Burstead Ward, which follows a tradition of naming wards after local places, is equipped with the latest equipment, all meeting the latest high clinical standards. Ward staff and patients will benefit from new portable computers, a touch screen interactive e-board, and ‘comfort cooling’ which keeps the ward warm in winter and cool in summer. 

A new treatment room where patients who have had colorectal surgery  can receive care from stoma nurses in privacy has also been welcomed by staff and patients alike. 

Mr Metcalfe was given a tour of the new ward and the opportunity to talk to patients about the care they were receiving. He added: “It was great to meet patients and hear such positive feedback about the hospital. Whilst there have been many negative reports recently, it is clear that the hospital is on the up and we must be proud of the positive changes that have been made.”