CHFT is celebrating an amazing result with three entries having been shortlisted for the HSJ finals - which recognise outstanding contribution to healthcare.
Our work to reduce outpatient appointments in clinics by 20% by 2020 - top photo - is through as is our digital day case knee surgery and our Acute Floor at CRH which has already been a finalist at the HSJ Patient Safety awards earlier this year.
And all have the best theme in common - they're doing wonders for our patients.
The teams now have to deliver a presentation to the judges next month to decide the winners and they will be announced at the finals in London in November.
Our Chairman Philip Lewer, was thrilled. He said: “ To get to the HSJ finals is an honour for any healthcare provider. To have three teams there is a tremendous achievement.
“ Our teams are always trying to enhance the ways we can improve the care we can offer our patients and it is fabulous to see this recognised at such a high level and a great testament to my dedicated colleagues.”
So Comms asked the team leaders to tell us more about their journey to the HSJ finals.. and crucially what will they be wearing on the Big Night.
Lisa Williams: 20:20 Team
How does it feel to be shortlisted?
Absolutely amazing! We are giddy with excitement! It’s a great achievement for the whole team involved and a really exciting time for the project team
How much was it a team effort?
L:A phenomenal team effort. We have seen partners from across the system come together to listen and embrace what our patients are telling us, and create pathways and models that not only improve the patients experience, but also the working lives of our colleagues too.
How would you describe the benefits for patients?
L:Empowering patients to take control of their care in way in which suits their needs and lifestyle by reducing the amount of time they spend at the hospital. We are doing this by moving away from a traditional appointment approach, using smarter pathways, digital technology (such as phones, tablets and apps), and making sure that every contact we have with patients adds value to their care.
What will you be wearing on the night?.
L:Ask Ted Baker or Karen Millen…..
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Graham Walsh: Digital Day Care Knee Surgery
How does it feel to be shortlisted?
It’s great for the team to have their work recognised and it has been a real achievement to get this project up and running within six weeks. On a personal level it’s been great to incorporate my two main interests, technology and knees, and to get this national recognition is a real bonus. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank all the staff for getting this project off the ground and a special mention must go to anaesthetist, Dr Nisha Bhuskute, who often gets forgotten, who has worked tirelessly to make this a reality.
How much was it a team effort?
The whole project could not have been possible without the enthusiasm of the whole team. Everybody from staff in clinic to theatre staff, ward staff and the rehabilitation teams have been involved in making this a success. The passion that everyone has shown to achieve this is testimony to the compassionate care the trust delivers.
How would you describe the benefits for patients?
Apart from the obvious of patients getting to go home sooner we have found the patients have felt more engaged with their own recovery. The ability to monitor their rehabilitation has made a real impact on their outcomes and being able to message their rehab teams directly has made them feel part of their own care. This project has made a real difference to patient outcomes and experience and its great that this has been recognised nationally.
What will you be wearing on the night?
Difficult to choice between my diamante or sequined DJ.
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Nick Scriven: Acute Unit at CRH
How does it feel?
It feels great to be shortlisted (for another award!)- it goes to show that our work here is recognised on a national scale as being 'worthy' and of a quality we can be proud of
How much a team effort was it?
This was 110% a team effort starting from recognising the problems through to brainstorming the idea and then implementing it. and now continuing with the same ethos of working that got us to this place. We could not do any of this without being a team
And wear on the night?
I will be dragging out the suit again - second time this year - after not needing it for something like 15 years! I'm pleasantly surprised it still fits!