After facing unprecedented service pressures in the summer of 2024, the Vascular Team at University Hospital Hairmyres has been named a finalist in the 2025 NHS Lanarkshire Staff Awards — recognised for transforming crisis into collaboration.
With waiting lists growing and staffing levels stretched, the team came together to redesign how vascular care was delivered. Consultants led the change, developing nurse-led outpatient pathways and empowering clinical nurse specialists to manage routine reviews — freeing up surgeons for complex cases and ensuring patients were seen quickly by the right professional.
Administrative teams overhauled workflows to reduce delays, and vascular scientists partnered with ward staff to deliver investigations more efficiently. Governance data is now reviewed fortnightly to maintain momentum and share progress openly.
Thanks to their shared commitment and innovation, waiting times are falling, emergency care is protected, and patients are receiving faster, more consistent care.
