The new £15 million endoscopy unit at the Cumberland Infirmary in Carlisle will welcome its first patients later this month.
Today, clinicians, staff, and key partners had the opportunity to come and see the new unit before patients arrive.
Health bosses said the new unit will be able to treat more patients, helping to reduce our waiting lists and improve timely diagnosis, particularly for cancers.
It includes five clinical rooms and an outpatient area, enabling more patients to receive endoscopy procedures locally.
Dr Adrian Clements, executive medical director for the North Cumbria Integrated Care NHs Foundation Trust, which runs the hospital, said: “It was great to see the finished unit today, it looks fantastic and everyone involved in making this happen should feel very proud.
“This modern new facility will make a huge difference to both our patients and our staff, and it is great to see the hard work of a number of people and organisations come together to create a unit that will support outstanding care.”
Dr Daya Karat, consultant surgeon, said: “We will be working hard over the next couple of weeks to ensure everything is set up and ready for patients to start to use the unit.
“Our dedicated endoscopy staff are excited to start making use of the state-of-the-art facilities. This will also free up space within the main hospital for the expansion of other departments, further benefiting both staff and patients.”
The trust worked with Ergéa UK on the facility.
Craig Farrow, its commercial director, said: “We’re incredibly proud to be part of this project, which marks a significant milestone in our partnership with the trust.
“Together, we have created a modern, state-of-the-art clinical facility that will play a critical role in transforming the patient experience and support positive outcomes.
“We’re excited for the official opening and to witness first hand the positive impact this unit will have on the local community.”
