New ward at Broomfield Hospital helping to ease pressure on trauma services
A new ward for patients needing orthopaedic surgery has opened at Broomfield Hospital and is also helping to reduce delays.
Cressing ward is already making a positive impact with patients getting quicker access to surgery, fewer cancellations and faster recovery times.
Many are now able to go home within one to two days of surgery instead of the previous average stay of five days.
In the first week of the ward opening 16 elective patients and five emergency trauma patients were admitted and the first joint replacements were carried out – and in all cases patients left hospital far sooner than before.
There are eight beds which can expand to 16 day‑case spaces and accept ten admissions each day to support elective and trauma patients.
Alex Johnson, Lead Nurse for Trauma and Orthopaedics, said: “This ward has transformed the way we care for patients. Having a dedicated space means we can focus on recovery and rehabilitation, while also easing the pressure on our trauma teams.”
Alex Johnson added: “I would like to thank all of the teams who worked so hard to help me in setting up the ward. From portering and domestic services to catering, estates, infection control, operational, nursing, allied health professionals and medical colleagues. Everyone played a vital role in developing the pathway and preparing the ward.”
Funding for the ward is in place until March 2026 and the Trust will continue to show how it improves patient care and hospital capacity to secure future investment.