University Hospital Southampton opens mobile endoscopy units
It's after a fire in February destroyed the endoscopy units in the West Wing of the hospital
The University Hospital Southampton (UHS) are welcoming some patients back to temporary and mobile endoscopy units.
UHS are calling it a "significant milestone" in the Trust's recovery from the blaze - with some patients now being offered the procedure once again.
The temporary units are planned to stay in place for at least the next two years as extensive repair work continues on the West Wing of the hospital - following the fire that broke out on Sunday February 1st.
Andy Hyett, chief operating officer at UHS, said: “Bringing patients who require these important diagnostic tests back to UHS is a real milestone in our recovery, which would not have been possible without the hard work and dedication of our staff.
“We appreciate the impact the disruption caused by the fire has had on our patients and are grateful for their understanding and support during the past ten weeks while we have delivered as much of the service as possible, in a different way.
“Our focus has always been on returning as much of this service, as quickly, safely and efficiently as we can.
"This is the first step in bringing our patients and staff back together at UHS, while the Trust works on rebuilding the fire damaged area and creating a permanent home for endoscopy services in the future.”
More than 500 patients were evacuated in the fire within 40 minutes, as more than 110 firefighters got the blaze under control.
Since then, only emergency, inpatient and therapeutic endoscopies have been possible at UHS during this time, following the swift repurposing of two theatres plus use of an area within the Trust’s Clinical Research Facility.
Some patients have been seen by staff, who were relocated, in temporary sites including Royal South Hants, Spire, Nuffield and Lymington hospital.
UHS say their ability to deliver a full service has been impeded and waiting lists affected following the fire.
Southampton Hospitals Charity has donated equipment for staff working in the units including microwaves, coffee machines and mugs after everything in the unit was destroyed in the fire.
UHS continues to operate with 140 fewer beds as a result of the fire, with part of West Wing out of action and a number of services still disrupted and displaced across the hospital site.
Kat Black, specialist medicine matron at UHS, said: “This has been an exceptionally difficult period for everyone.
"We’ve faced uncertainty, ongoing pressure, and moments that have truly tested our resilience.
"What stands out most is how we have worked together, as a team, never losing sight of what matters most – our patients.
“Even at our most challenging times, we have seen unwavering professionalism, kindness, and compassion.
"Colleagues across the organisation have gone above and beyond and we want to thank everyone who has supported us."
Work is now underway on land at Adanac Park to open three further three mobile endoscopy units in June.