New LRCH palliative care ward opens
UHDB has created a new ward at London Road Community Hospital to support patients approaching the end of life.
The new Ward 2, which has 14 single room bedrooms, has been designed specifically for patients who require end of life care but who can’t return home or go to a nursing home.
The new ward has its own courtyard and gardens, which makes it a more tranquil environment than the bustle of a big acute hospital.
Dr Claudia Whale, Palliative Medicine Consultant, said: “I’m really pleased that we are able to open this new ward for patients who require end of life care. We’ve worked hard to make it the right environment for people approaching the end of their life.
"Those patients who can go home or to a nursing home will continue to do so, but this ward will be for those who need care that can’t be provided at home. In addition, we’ll be able to support families in spending time with their loved ones.”
The ward is a non-specialist palliative care ward, overseen by a Palliative Medicine Consultant.
Patients who are currently being treated on an acute ward, such as at Royal Derby Hospital, may be referred to Ward 2.
Patients, close friends and family will always be included in decision making. The London Road Community Hospital is easily accessible by train and bus.