Update from site visit taking place on 28th July 2014.
Minutes:
The Chair reported that together with Councillors Bains, Cheema, M Holledge and Strutton, she had attended a site visit to Frimley Park Hospital on 28th July. The visit had centred on the Accident and Emergency and Maternity Departments where a lot of refurbishment had been carried out to enable high quality services to be provided and maintained.
Members were impressed by the Emergency Department facilities comprising 37 cubicles for adult patients, each with its own sliding entrance door to provide privacy for the patient during assessment and treatment. Access to all diagnostic services was available. There was a resuscitation area for more critical incidents containing fully equipped bays. The Consultant led service had a target for all patients to be assessed within 15 minutes of arrival and dealt with in under 4 hours before being referred to the appropriate care area.
The Maternity Department, currently being refurbished, dealt with 5,200 to 5,500 births per year and currently had ‘Baby Friendly’ accreditation from UNICEF.
Members had the opportunity to speak to hospital staff, some of whom were involved in the acquisition acting as ‘buddies’ on visits to Wexham Park, and generally offering advice and support. There seemed to be a high degree of willingness to work together to ensure that services at both sites should be of the highest possible quality. It was considered that the Frimley Park Hospital Trust had a clear sense of direction and a good record on engagement with local residents.
Members considered it was important stress the benefits to Wexham Park that would accrue from the acquisition and to reassure Slough residents.
Resolved -
(a) That satisfaction be expressed with outcome of the site visit to Frimley Park Hospital
(b) That Trust representatives be invited to a meeting of the Panel in the autumn to report on progress of the acquisition.