New Acute Medical Unit opens at Harrogate District Hospital
Facility designed to improve urgent care and reduce waiting times
Patients at Harrogate District Hospital will benefit from faster and safer urgent care as Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust (HDFT) opens its new, state-of-the-art Acute Medical Unit (AMU).
The 24/7 AMU is designed to streamline access to urgent medical care, taking acutely unwell patients referred by GPs, the Emergency Department, and outpatient services. It delivers same-day assessments, treatments, and discharge whenever appropriate, helping to relieve pressure on the Emergency Department and ensuring patients receive care in the right place at the right time.
Jonathan Coulter, Chief Executive at HDFT, said the new facility marks significant progress in improving services:
“We are committed to providing the highest levels of healthcare for our patients, and the new AMU will help us further improve our services by increasing capacity and streamlining urgent care. This opening comes at a crucial time as winter sees an increase in patients with respiratory conditions. Our new unit ensures we’re better prepared for the months ahead.”
Expanded capacity and patient-focused design
The AMU replaces the former Littondale Ward, adding 30% more bed capacity compared to the hospital’s previous assessment unit. It features 32 beds across bays, en-suite side rooms, and medically enhanced care beds for higher dependency patients.
With a focus on patient recovery, the facility also includes an ambulatory area with supportive recliner chairs to encourage movement. Natural lighting effects, such as sky tiles, create a welcoming and calming atmosphere.
Modern technology such as the nurse Smartcall system further enhances patient care, enabling instant alerts to nursing staff when patients require assistance.
“Designed with patients at its core, the new unit provides a dedicated environment for swift, efficient assessments and care,” said Charly Gill, Associate Director of Nursing.