New one way system introduced at Bath hospital
Its been brought in to try and create a more socially distanced setting
The Royal United Hospital’s Bath NHS Foundation Trust has introduced a new one-way system, which they say will create a safer and more socially distanced place for visitors.
The Trust provides acute treatment and care for a catchment population of around 500,000 people in Bath, and this new system has been bought into place after the recent increase in visitors since RUH reinstated limited visiting earlier this month as lockdown restrictions ease.
Chief Nurse Toni Lynch said:
“The coronavirus threat has not gone away and we all have a duty to follow the usual procedures of washing hands thoroughly, wearing a face covering at all times within the hospital buildings, and keeping a safe distance from others.”
The system will mean when visitors get to the main entrance of the hospital they will be directed to follow a one-way pedestrian system, while signs and stickers in corridors will direct them and staff to keep a two-metre distance.
The RUH is now moving into the next stage of its post-COVID-19 recovery and due to the decrease in coronavirus patients, the hospital can now restart some planned elective orthopaedic surgeries that were postponed due to the pandemic, such as hip and knee replacements.
RUH Chief Executive Cara Charles-Barks said:
“This is great news for the Trust and our community and another significant step forward in the hospital returning to being able to provide near-normal services”.
The high demand in care for coronavirus patients meant that The Trust had to postpone elective operations in January of this year. However, all cancer, high priority emergency and trauma services were still available, as well as daily activity of outpatient appointments either virtually or face to face.
Ms Charles-Barks added:
“Like every Trust, the pandemic has had a significant effect on waiting times at the RUH. We are now in a better position and we’re working hard”.
The Trust have also collaborated with Great Western Hospital and Salisbury Hospital trusts to help patients get the elective care they they need and to reduce the numbers on waiting lists.