Imaging improvements at PRH: official opening

The newly redeveloped Imaging Department at Princess Royal Hospital, Haywards Heath, was officially opened today by Dr George Findlay, Chief Medical Officer and Deputy Chief Executive for Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust.

A new CT (computerised tomography) scanner and new digital x-ray facility are among the improvements that the reworked Imaging Department can offer patients. The new CT scanner doubles the capacity for such scans in the department, improving access and reliability for patients who need the service. The new digital x-ray facility features the latest equipment and ensures the department can keep up with advancements in x-ray technology. Patients coming to the Imaging Department will also benefit from two new dedicated cannulation rooms.
The works, which started last summer, have allowed staff to redesign the waiting areas for both inpatients and outpatients, improving privacy and dignity for all. The outpatient waiting areas have been colour coded to make it easier for patients to find the right area and the changing facilities for outpatients have been much improved. Importantly, the redesign has also created a dedicated and private waiting area for inpatients who are brought to the department on beds or trolleys.

Opening the facility today, Dr Findlay said:
“These improvements will make a real difference to the experience of every patient who comes to the Imaging Department. Redeveloping a department like this while it continues to deliver care is a real achievement. Doing so during a pandemic, and finishing the project on time and to budget, is outstanding. I commend all the staff involved for their dedication to our patients and their determination to see this project through. This really is patient centred planning and care at its best.”

Works to improve the Imaging Department were carried out over seven stages so that patient care could continue throughout the project. The BSUH project manager, senior members of the Imaging Team and managers from the chosen contractor, Pilbeams, worked closely together to keep the project running safely throughout the period of the pandemic.