Work is now complete on the new discharge and transfer lounge, which opened yesterday (Monday 16 July) at Southport and District General Hospital. The new unit will improve patient flow, relieving pressure on A&E, improving care and the overall patient experience.


Head of patient flow Hazel Irizar explains: “This is part of a bigger project to completely overhaul our emergency care provision. The new unit will free up space in accident and emergency, and provide a more comfortable experience for patients waiting to be discharged. The unit has three beds and a side-room, plus a seating area for up to eight mobile patients.



“The next and final stage of works will begin shortly, and this will see A&E refurbished by autumn. Additional bays, additional staff and improved triage facilities to accelerate patient hand over from ambulance crews, will create a much improved experience and environment for both patients and staff.”



Chief executive Silas Nicholls concludes: “Improving the experience of care for patients attending Accident and Emergency has been a priority for us for some time. The new discharge lounge, along with our Clinical Decision Unit which opened earlier this year, and the planned A&E refurbishment, will vastly improve our performance and resilience.”

Hours of opening: Monday to Friday 8am to 6.30pm.