Supporting lifesaving project

Construction work to support the introduction of the highly anticipated surgical robot has been successfully delivered thanks to programme and change management expertise provided by ourselves.

Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust enlisted our help to introduce the state-of-the-art surgical robot at Alexandra Hospital, Redditch, initially to help finalise the business case. Following approval of the business case, we were subsequently commissioned to lead the implementation of the programme, accountable for the critical path across a number of workstreams.

Helping to build a robot

Our responsibilities included coordinating the build works, recruitment and training, finances, clinical operations and communication efforts, as well as the digital elements needed to support the installation of the robot. With the operating theatre now complete, we have handed the stabilisation phase back over to the Trust.

Providing a blended team of specialist consultants and working across all stakeholder groups, has ensured a holistic overview of the entire programme, keeping each of the various elements on track.

Providing a better patient experience

Surgeons will use the Da Vinci surgical system to initially perform urology procedures on prostate cancer patients. Robot-assisted surgery is less invasive surgery, so this change will result in a better patient experience, with shorter stays in hospital, less pain and quicker recovery times for patients with prostate cancer – the most common form of cancer in men.

The refurbishment work included renovating and reinforcing the theatre floor to take the weight of the new robot as well as upgrading the ventilation system to cater for its additional functionality. Senior clinicians aim to begin providing robot-assisted surgery at the Alexandra Hospital later this year.

Julie Smith, senior consultant, comments:

“Entec Si’s experience of understanding the complexities of managing change within healthcare environments has meant the successful construction of the new operating theatre ready for the robot. Not only has this been an inspiring project to oversee, but one that is incredibly important to the community in which it will serve. Understanding the importance of improving patient outcomes has been the thread that has kept this entire project so innovative, emotive and focused.

“Being able to add value to an already highly competent team remains the unique gem in Entec Si’s crown and I’m proud to hand over the programme to the Trust for the final stabilisation phase in a healthy position.”

Mr Steve Goodyear MD FRCS, Divisional Director (Surgery) of Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust, adds:

“Entec Si has been invaluable in the delivery of this project, helping us to demonstrate our commitment to providing the best experience for our patients. Its consultants have been fully engaged, committed and brought energy to this complex project, and we are incredibly grateful for their support. The successful delivery of the project will not only mean better care for patients but also help to make the Trust an even more attractive place to work and train clinical staff across a wide range of specialities.”

Image courtesy of Intuitive Surgical