Stephen Metcalfe, local MP for
South Basildon and East Thurrock, and John Baron, MP for Basildon and
Billericay, recently joined staff and supporters at Basildon Hospital to
officially open the new 28 bed Burstead Ward.
Chief Nurse for Basildon and
Brentwood Clinical, Lisa Allen, also took part in the ribbon cutting ceremony
to the open the ward which forms part of the Hospital’s plan to increase the
number of beds to meet the demand for emergency inpatient care this winter.
The guests were welcomed by
Chief Executive of the Trust, Clare Panniker, who thanked all those involved in
the speedy completion of the project. She said: “It has been a great team
effort. The additional 28 beds and the investment we have made in more staff
will help to ensure our patients receive excellent and safe care, particularly during
the busy winter period.”
Stephen Metcalfe MP said: “It
is a credit to everyone involved that this project came together in four
months, and I thank them on behalf of the people of South Basildon and East
Thurrock. We know the Trust has had its challenges, but I think it is
turning a corner and I have high expectations for the future of this hospital.”
The Burstead Ward, which
follows a tradition of naming wards after local places, is equipped with the
latest equipment, all meeting the latest high clinical standards. Ward staff
and patients will benefit from new portable computers, a touch screen
interactive e-board, and ‘comfort cooling’ which keeps the ward warm in winter
and cool in summer.
A new treatment room where
patients who have had colorectal surgery can receive care from stoma
nurses in privacy has also been welcomed by staff and patients alike.
Mr Metcalfe was given a tour of
the new ward and the opportunity to talk to patients about the care they were
receiving. He added: “It was great to meet patients and hear such positive
feedback about the hospital. Whilst there have been many negative reports
recently, it is clear that the hospital is on the up and we must be proud of
the positive changes that have been made.”
