Derriford Hospital has inaugurated a new 23-bed facility dedicated to the care and treatment of liver disease patients, marking a significant development in the hospital’s efforts to combat one of the UK’s most pressing health issues. The unit, part of the University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust, began operations on 21 August, offering advanced medical services to a growing number of individuals affected by liver-related conditions.
This new facility arrives at a crucial time, as liver disease continues to rise across the country. It is the only major illness in the UK where mortality rates are climbing, even as deaths from other significant non-communicable diseases, such as heart disease and lung conditions, have seen notable declines. In the South West region alone, more than 9,000 hospital admissions due to liver disease were recorded in the 2022/23 period, with nearly 1,000 lives lost prematurely.
A Timely Response to a Growing Health Crisis
The creation of the specialised liver unit reflects a broader effort to improve patient outcomes through early diagnosis and targeted care. Leaders at the hospital have emphasised the importance of providing high-quality, specialised care, particularly as the prevalence of liver disease continues to increase. They noted that the new unit is equipped not only to offer advanced treatments but also to play a pivotal role in the early identification of liver disease, which is crucial for improving survival rates.
A consultant hepatologist associated with the project expressed optimism about the potential impact of the new unit, highlighting its importance in providing patient-focused care. The consultant remarked that the unit represents a significant advancement in the hospital’s capabilities, allowing staff to offer more comprehensive support to liver disease patients. They also praised the collaborative effort involved in bringing the project to fruition, acknowledging the hard work of all those who contributed to the unit’s completion.
A Patient-Centred Healing Environment
The design of the new liver unit goes beyond merely expanding capacity; it reflects a commitment to creating a healing environment that addresses the emotional and psychological needs of patients and their families. Staff members played an active role in the design process, ensuring that the space would be welcoming and less clinical in appearance. This involved choosing calming colour schemes and installing lighting fixtures that project soothing, nature-inspired themes, all aimed at reducing stress and promoting a sense of calm.
The unit also includes a new quiet room, a dedicated space where patients and their families can engage in difficult conversations in a private and compassionate setting. This addition underscores the hospital’s commitment to supporting not just the physical health of its patients, but their emotional well-being as well.
Moving Forward
The opening of this specialised liver treatment unit represents a significant advancement in the region’s healthcare infrastructure, providing much-needed resources to address the rising number of liver disease cases. The facility is expected to make a meaningful impact on patient outcomes by offering state-of-the-art care and facilitating early diagnosis, which is critical in managing liver disease effectively.
As liver disease continues to present a growing challenge for public health, the development of similar facilities across the UK will be essential. The experience of Derriford Hospital in establishing this unit offers valuable insights for other NHS Trusts looking to enhance their capabilities in liver disease treatment and care.
In conclusion, the launch of the new 23-bed liver unit at Derriford Hospital is a crucial step forward in the fight against liver disease. It not only expands the hospital’s ability to provide specialised care but also sets a new standard for patient-centred treatment environments. As the unit begins its operations, it stands as a testament to the importance of continued investment in healthcare infrastructure, particularly in areas where the need is growing rapidly.
