Bassetlaw Hospital's emergency care facility is now providing a more streamlined experience for patients, with services brought together to reduce waiting times and improve care for local people. The Lord Lieutenant recently toured the facility to see the impact of the investment first-hand.
The new-build emergency department, children's assessment unit and acute medical unit opened over the past year. The final phase, including minor injuries and same-day emergency care, was completed in December.
A key benefit has been the return of overnight observation services for children at Bassetlaw. Previously, some children requiring observation or assessment would need to travel to other hospitals, creating stress for families. Now, care can be provided locally, keeping families together.
The department itself has been redesigned with individualised observation bays and a dedicated "fit to sit" area for patients who can safely wait whilst under clinical supervision. Location alongside the minor injuries and acute medical services means patients can be directed to the right level of care more quickly.
Community fundraising has supported improvements too. The Bassetlaw Emergency Village Appeal, supported by the hospital charity, League of Friends and Rotary Club of Retford, has contributed interactive devices and toys that help create a more reassuring environment, particularly for children.
