Update on elective surgery

Whilst we are not currently seeing the high number of Covid patients in our hospitals that we have in the past, there is no doubt that we are still seeing the effects of the unprecedented pressures the pandemic has placed on the NHS.

One of the areas where we know patients have really felt the effects is in elective surgery. The pandemic has meant that we have had to postpone some elective surgeries, but now we are working hard to do all we can to rearrange elective procedures for our patients.

We understand the impact of delaying medical care can be very stressful and upsetting, and we are prioritising patients on the basis of clinical need, and taking into account those who have waited the longest with our doctors doing so in line with nationally agreed guidance.

The Trust has written to all patients currently on a waiting list for surgery at one of its hospitals, and coupled with this we are asking our patients to do all they can to maximise their health and fitness where possible, to help improve their outcome.

We have shared some information, about how to get fitter sooner in preparation for surgery, with all our patients who are currently on a waiting. It is based on information from The Royal College of Anaesthetists, and if you would like to learn more about preparing for surgery please visit their website.

If you are on a waiting list and feel your medical condition, or that of the person you care for, has changed or worsened, please do not hesitate to contact your GP or your hospital consultant.

We want to thank all our patients for their continued understanding and look forward to welcoming you to the Trust as soon as we can.