Meet the Urogynaecology Team from NHS Lanarkshire, whose pioneering work in outpatient care has set a new standard for clinical efficiency, patient care and experience.
Since the end of 2019, this innovative team has transformed the delivery of minimally invasive urogynaecological procedures to the outpatient setting, becoming the first in Scotland to do so. Their groundbreaking approach has not only improved patient care but also reduced theatre costs and increased access to surgical facilities for other patients.
Their inventive work has not only saved hundreds of patients from hospital admissions, but it has also significantly improved the quality of life and the mental wellbeing of those patients by allowing their treatment to be delivered in a timely manner regardless of the current unprecedented pressure on the limited NHS resources. It has kept NHS Lanarkshire waiting times for those procedures the best in Scotland since 2021.
Patient feedback highlights the success of their approach, with 90% of patients reporting they were extremely satisfied and 100% indicating they would choose the same procedure setting again. Notably, no patients have needed to abandon their procedures, and there have been no intraoperative or postoperative complications or hospital admissions.
The clinic’s efficiency extends beyond patient satisfaction. By performing procedures like the Urethral Bulking Agent Injection in an outpatient setting, the team has saved approximately £1,000 per patient and freed up theatre capacity—a crucial factor during the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic when theatre access was limited. They have also eliminated the appointments required while patients are awaiting their treatments.
By developing an innovative, robust, and efficient pathway, the team has ensured a safe, patient-centred, and effective service, incorporating rigorous post-procedure monitoring and continuous improvements. Their work became nationally recognised in 2023, with the National Centre for Sustainable Delivery and other health boards like NHS Tayside referring patients to Lanarkshire for treatments, reflecting the high regard in which their services are held.
The team’s commitment to sharing their success has led to collaborations with NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, assisting them in establishing similar clinics. Their continuous auditing process ensures high standards of care and safety, underscoring their role as leaders in the field who revolutionised the delivery of urogyncology service not only in Lanarkshire but in Scotland.
Led by Dr. Adeeb Hassan, the Urogynaecology Team’s dedication, commitment, and outstanding national achievements in enhancing patient care and service efficiency make them a deserving nominee for this award, showcasing a brilliant example of innovation and excellence in healthcare.
