EAST Ayrshire Community Hospital has been praised for its work putting patients at the centre of care.
The NHS Ayrshire and Arran facility in Cumnock was visited by Scotland’s Chief Medical Officer, Professor Sir Gregor Smith, recently, who learned about the health board’s approach to realistic medicine during his visit.
The visit focused on projects highlighted in the health board’s new realistic medicine casebook, which showcases patient-focused care across acute, community and primary care settings.
Dr Crawford McGuffie, medical director, said: "East Ayrshire Community Hospital provides a strong example of value-based health and care in action.
"From redesigned clinical pathways to the thoughtful use of physical space, the hospital demonstrates how person-centred care, collaboration and the wise use of resources go hand in hand."
The realistic medicine team presented a range of projects aimed at reducing harm and waste, supporting shared decision making and improving patient experience.
Examples included the transformation of inpatient cardiology through the cardiac day unit, developing safer and more sustainable medicine returns from care homes and improving timely results for men following prostate cancer treatment.
Other projects highlighted the benefits of early psychological support for older patients.
The visit also recognised the importance of compassionate care, with Sir Gregor shown the Forget Me Not Memorial Garden on the dementia ward.
Dr McGuffie said: "This visit reaffirmed our commitment to delivering high quality, person-centred care, underpinned by the principles of Realistic Medicine.
"Realistic medicine is not an add-on in NHS Ayrshire and Arran.
"It is embedded in our people, culture and buildings.
"I'd like to thank Professor Sir Gregor Smith for coming along to see realistic medicine in action.
"Thanks also to the team for sharing their work and demonstrating how focusing on what matters most delivers better care and better value for our communities."
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