A year after opening, the Chestnut Unit at Derriford Hospital has significantly improved patient access to specialist care by reducing waiting times and streamlining treatment pathways.
KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR THE CHESTNUT UNIT:
Over 400 Patients Treated – Since launching in April 2024, the Urology Same Day Emergency Care (SDEC) service has provided care for more than 400 patients, including 336 emergency cases.
Reduced Hospital Admissions – Of the patients treated, fewer than 20 required admission, demonstrating the efficiency of same-day treatment in preventing unnecessary overnight stays.
Expanding Referral Pathways – The unit has received 104 referrals from the Emergency Department, alongside many more from NHS 111, GPs, community teams, and the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT).
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The unit plays a crucial role in diagnosing and managing conditions such as prostate, bladder, kidney, testicular, and penile cancers.
One of its key developments has been the introduction of the Urology Same Day Emergency Care (SDEC) service in April 2024. Designed to provide rapid assessment and treatment, the service has already treated more than 400 patients, including 336 emergency cases.
Hospital staff say it has eased pressure on emergency departments by ensuring patients receive specialist care without unnecessary hospital admissions. Fewer than 20 patients have required an overnight stay, with most able to return home the same day.
Emma McCurdy, Service Line Cluster Manager for Urology, said:
“We are thrilled with the success of the Urology SDEC and the positive impact it has had on patients and hospital resources. By providing high-quality, same-day care, we have improved patient outcomes and supported our emergency services.
“We are now exploring opportunities to expand SDEC pathways further within Urology to reduce hospital admissions and deliver even greater benefits for our patients.”
Patients are referred to the service from various routes, including NHS 111, GP surgeries, and the South Western Ambulance Service.
The approach has been particularly beneficial for oncology patients and those requiring post-surgical care, allowing for earlier discharges and reducing inpatient stays.
The Urology team works closely with the Chestnut Appeal, a charity founded at Derriford Hospital. The charity raises funds for the very latest equipment and comforts for patients, beyond what is offered on the NHS, making the unit the very best it can be. This includes funding for training a psychosexual counsellor, offering a dedicated service for male continence, funding pioneering equipment and technology to be housed in this new space. Lesley-Ann Simpson, Chief Executive Officer at the Chestnut Appeal said:
“We’re delighted this purpose-built unit has achieved so much in its first year of opening and has contributed to a gold standard in care in the South West for those needing urology services.”
