New Frailty Unit opens at Borders General Hospital
It's hoped the opening of a new Frailty unit at Borders General Hospital will help ease pressure on local health services this winter.
Part of a new five-year clinical strategy announced by NHS Borders, the permanent service is designed to reduce the amount of time older patients spend there - by providing rapid assessments and tailored care.
The aim is to get patients over the age of 65 back home, and into their routine, within four days, or as soon as they are fit to do so.
That's because health chiefs say staying in hospital longer than necessary can harm patient health and lead to loss of independence.
Supported by a team of specialist healthcare professionals, the unit will provide safe, effective care and help patients return home sooner, reducing the negative impact long hospital stays can have on physical and mental well-being.
NHS Borders is asking families and carers to support it by helping their loved ones prepare for discharge before noon.
This could include straightforward but important steps such as making sure the heating is on at home, stocking the fridge with essentials, being available to collect loved ones in the morning and helping them settle back at home.
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Gareth Clinkscale, NHS Borders Director of Urgent Care, Community Services and Mental Health, said: “We are delighted our new Frailty Unit is now open.
"Our dedicated team will focus on rapid assessment and tailored care ensuring our older patients get the care they need quickly and are supported to return home or to their next place of care within a few days.
“By working together with families and carers, we will improve outcomes and ensure care continues in a way that works best for patients and their families.”
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