Less than three years after the contracts were signed, the first patients will take excited steps through the doors of the new Pinderfields Hospital next week (14 June 2010).

The first services to open are the Children’s Centre, which has all outpatient services for children in one place, as well as the rehabilitation department for physiotherapy and occupational therapy, neurology outpatients, orthotics and clinical psychology.

The following week, the regional spinal injuries centre will open (21 June) with brand new facilities including the latest equipment and technology to provide the best possible care and rehabilitation.

From 22 June, patients who have suffered a stroke or brain injury will be cared for in the brand new stroke and neurology unit and neurology rehabilitation ward.

And in July, patients will also start accessing services in a range of new outpatient areas including the fracture and orthopaedic clinic, oncology/haematology day unit, mammography, ear, nose and throat (ENT) and audiology, cardio respiratory investigations, ophthalmology, oral and facial, neurophysiology, pharmacy dispensing, blood tests and maternity outpatients.

The remaining services are planned to open in a few month’s time when the new Pontefract Hospital will also be fully open.

Each of the outpatient services in the new Pinderfields Hospital will offer much improved modern facilities including bigger, purpose-built consulting and treatment rooms, dedicated waiting areas and receptions as well as the latest equipment and technology to support patient care and rehabilitation.

Patients staying overnight will have access to more ensuite accommodation and single rooms to enhance privacy and dignity and day rooms and dining areas to aid their recovery.

All patients and visitors will benefit from a new relaxing environment with bright light courtyards and landscaped garden areas as well as the new ‘In Café’ for dining and refreshments.

Julia Squire, chief executive of the Trust, said: “What we are providing for patients in the new Pinderfields Hospital is first class care and now in first class facilities. Patients can expect to receive their treatment in an environment designed around them and I know that our staff are excited about welcoming patients over the coming weeks.

“Our patients will not only benefit from state-of-the-art modern facilities but will have faster access to their care and treatment because the new building has been designed to accommodate the latest technology and innovations in healthcare.”

Ann Taylor, senior sister for children’s outpatients, said: “The Children’s Centre is just for children and staff are really thrilled that they will be able to provide outpatient care in a much better environment. The current environment is outdated and it’s fantastic to have our own dedicated area for our young patients and their families.”

Miss Joanne Kendall, from Wakefield, regularly visits Pinderfields with her son Joshua Lindley, 5, who has cerebral palsy quadriplegia. As part of his care, Joshua attends physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech and language sessions as well as consultant epilepsy clinics. He will be able to attend the new Children’s Centre from Monday.

Miss Kendall said: “The new hospital is fantastic and much needed. There’s nothing wrong with the old one as I think it’s the people that make a hospital but it’s great to have brand new, fresh facilities on our doorstep.”

https://www.midyorks.nhs.uk/new-pinderfields-hospital-to-open-its-doors