Hospital unit to open in time for Christmas

A medical day unit is due to open at its new home in time for Christmas after two years of setbacks.

Cheltenham General Hospital's medical day unit will open on the Oakley Ward in Centre Block on Christmas Eve, after relocating from its previous site near the Accident and Emergency department.

The unit provides vital intravenous (IV) therapies for conditions such as multiple sclerosis, osteoporosis, and inflammatory bowel disease.

It has two more recliner chairs than the previous unit, and was designed to address patients concerns regarding privacy and dignity at the old site.

Many patients attend the medical day unit (MDU) regularly for IV infusions, while others complete their course of treatment there after being discharged from hospital.

Vinod Mani leads the unit and oversaw the move, which comes after more than two years of "meticulous planning and several setbacks".

"This unit is a lifeline for so many patients who rely on these treatments," he said.

Mr Mani said the the Nightingale-style layout of the "bright, open space" accommodated 14 recliner chairs and allowed staff to observe all patients easily, compared to the "previous cramped unit".

"The greater capacity helps us treat more people and reduce costly hospital admissions, freeing up acute care beds," he added.

"The light, space and comfort of our new MDU will make a huge difference to both patients and staff.

"The environment is now one we can be proud of and we look forward to welcoming our first patients on Christmas Eve."

Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Trust said the move was "another milestone" at the hospital as it moved to improve care quality and patient experience.

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