A new purpose-built ‘state-of-the art’ endoscopy unit at the Royal Gwent Hospital, designed by global multidisciplinary design practice BDP, which has just opened its doors, will provide an expanded range of endoscopy services to patients in the Gwent area using the most up-to-date equipment and facilities.
The new facility will enable the hospital to double its capacity, significantly improve the patient experience, and reduce waiting times. The endoscopy facility is located in the former maternity unit which moved in 2021 to Grange University Hospital in Llanfrechfa, Cwmbran, the new, ‘multi award-winning’ specialist critical care centre also designed by BDP.
BDP worked in partnership with the Aneurin Bevan University Health Board and staff at the Royal Gwent Hospital to design the new endoscopy unit around the needs of the patients. The architectural firm says that by bringing all endoscopy staff and services together in one place, the unit will provide ‘wraparound care’ for patients through all stages of the diagnostic process.
The unit includes 12 pre-operative assessment bays, four new procedure suites, and associated recovery areas, with new staff facilities including a rest area, changing rooms, and a dedicated meeting space.
BDP explained: “Endoscopy services at the Royal Gwent Hospital were previously based in two outdated procedure suites and patient support areas, which were not appropriate for modern standards of care. With growing demand, it was evident that a larger unit was required to improve services and help reduce waiting times for diagnostic procedures.”
Sarah Wilson, Directorate manager for Gastroenterology and Endoscopy at Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, said: “This unit has been such a team effort. The staff have all been involved in the design of the unit, the orientation, and where they want to see things when we move in; we’ve included them all. Our aim was to improve the patient journey, patient quality, and patient safety, and ultimately improve the overall patient experience of endoscopy. I’m so proud to be able to offer our patients the service they deserve.”
