10/01/2011……..Ward closing at Thame hospital for refurbishment

THE in-patient ward at Thame community Hospital is to be closed temporarily as part of the general refurbishment work currently being undertaken at the hospital to bring infection control up to modern standards.

The works, which will be completed by the end of February 2011, include a number of improvements to the outpatient department, day services and inpatient ward such as new flooring, paint and general refurbishment. The inpatient ward will also receive new sinks, ceilings and lighting.

In a statement today, the Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust explained: “To complete this work in a timely way, with little disruption to patient care, it will be necessary for us to temporarily close the inpatient ward from 14 January 2011 for a period of six weeks (reopening 28 February 2011). During this time patients requiring an inpatient stay will be cared for at either Buckingham or Amersham community hospitals ? although as far as possible, patients who are well enough will be seen in their own homes by our specialist staff.”

The rest of the hospital will continue to be open during this time, although some outpatient clinics and day services may be moved to other parts of the Thame Hospital site or rearranged for another date. Patients will be contacted directly if there are any changes to their appointment.

Rachael Corser, lead nurse for the community hospital, said: ?Staff are doing everything they can to try and minimise disruption to patients using the rest of the hospital whilst the works are ongoing. However, we do apologise in advance for any inconvenience caused.

She added: “Following the successful integration between acute and community healthcare services last year, Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust has been working hard to improve and develop services in the community, providing high quality care closer to patient?s homes wherever possible. We believe the refurbishment works at Thame Community Hospital will put the hospital in a better position to support services as we look to develop them there into the future.”