University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust has officially opened a new £15.3 million Breast Care Unit at County Hospital in Stafford, bringing imaging, diagnostics, outpatient clinics and patient support services together in a single, purpose-built facility.
The new centre, which welcomed its first patients in April, has been designed to improve patient privacy, comfort and accessibility while enhancing the delivery of breast care services across Staffordshire.
The facility was formally opened on Monday 5th October, by former patients and community representatives who played a key role in shaping its design. Their involvement helped ensure the building is welcoming, accessible and easy to navigate for patients and visitors.
The new Breast Care Unit has been developed to provide a more streamlined patient experience by integrating consultations, imaging, diagnostics and support services within one location.
Facilities include:
- Four consultation rooms
- An enhanced treatment room
- Three counselling rooms
- Two mammography suites
- Two ultrasound rooms
The introduction of advanced diagnostic technology will allow more tests to be carried out at County Hospital, reducing the need for some patients to travel to Royal Stoke University Hospital for investigations and assessments.
According to clinical leaders, the development responds to both growing patient demand and advances in breast care technology.
Mr Sekhar Marla, consultant oncoplastic breast surgeon, said:
“This new Breast Care Unit is the result of many years of planning and teamwork across UHNM. From the very beginning clinical teams and our supporters and partners were able to help shape the design of the Unit making sure it meets the needs of both patients and staff.
“We had outgrown our previous unit and developments in technology meant we needed facilities that could support the way breast care is delivered today. By bringing consultations, imaging, diagnostics and treatment services together in one modern, purpose-built environment we can provide a better experience for patients while supporting our teams to deliver the highest standards of care.
“We know that coming to a breast clinic can be an anxious experience for many people so providing a calm and welcoming environment makes a real difference. The new Unit gives patients access to state-of-the-art imaging technology closer to home and will support breast services for many years to come.”
A key feature of the project was the involvement of local patients and community support groups throughout the planning and design process. Their input helped influence the layout, accessibility features and overall patient environment, ensuring the facility meets the needs of those who use it most.
The new Breast Care Unit represents the latest phase of investment at County Hospital and follows several major developments on the site, including the Staffordshire Treatment Suite, the North Midlands Hand Centre and the £9.8 million Day Case Unit.
With demand for breast services continuing to grow, the facility is expected to play a significant role in improving access to diagnostics, treatment and support for patients across the region.
Image credit: iStock
