We’ve started a phased opening of the new SDEC (Same Day Emergency Care) at King George Hospital – treating 11 patients on the first day (Monday 8 April).

The chaired area for patients who are ‘fit to sit’ was opened, alongside three consultation rooms and waiting area. The department, which will also have 16 trolley spaces, is due to be fully open by the end of the month.

It will help us treat patients more quicky while also reducing overcrowding in A&E. Most patients seen in SDEC will not need to be admitted to hospital, so we’ll be able to get them home quicker, while reducing waits for patients in A&E. In some cases, if they need follow-up medication or tests, we can arrange for them to return as an outpatient.

Shannon Taylor, SDEC sister, said: “We’re really excited to get it up and running and start making a difference for our patients.

“We have a brilliant team and they’ve been really engaged and keen to get our first patients through the door.”

This expanded SDEC replaced the former version situated in A&E, which has been transformed into a clinical decision unit (CDU). The CDU provides a more comfortable space for A&E patients who may need to spend a little longer under observation.

Pictured top are (l-r): Laura Robinson, matron, Sophia Emenya, sister, Shannon Taylor, SDEC sister, Gloria Korda, staff nurse, and Julie Gregg, sister.