The acute ambulatory unit at Causeway Hospital has achieved remarkable success in its inaugural year of operation, significantly reducing patients’ waiting times in the Emergency Department and helping them to avoid unnecessary hospital stays.
Since its opening in April 2024, the unit has surpassed its initial target by more than two-fold, averaging over 400 patients each month.
Ward Manager Steven Kelly presented the performance update at a recent Causeway Hospital Partnership Board meeting, revealing that the original goal was to see 160 patients monthly. Mr Kelly expressed satisfaction with the unit’s performance, noting that it has been “far exceeded,” showcasing the effectiveness of the same-day emergency care model.
The innovative approach adopted by the acute ambulatory unit has attracted the attention of other Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts, which are now exploring the potential of this model to enhance ambulatory care throughout the region. This initiative is part of the Trust’s Reform North programme, aimed at transforming unscheduled care.
General Surgery Lead Nurse Maggie Bamford highlighted that the establishment of both the acute ambulatory unit and a surgical ambulatory unit at Causeway represents a “strategic shift in providing care.” She emphasised that this approach transcends mere service delivery, focusing instead on patient-centred, safe care that empowers patients, reduces inpatient stays, and optimises hospital flow.
“The benefits are a more resilient system and being able to deliver the kind of care that feels better for everyone,” Ms Bamford stated.
The Partnership Board, formed last autumn, is dedicated to advancing the Northern Health and Social Care Trust’s Vision for Causeway Hospital. It comprises Trust staff, community organisations, and representatives from the charity and voluntary sector, reflecting a collaborative effort to enhance local healthcare.
Workforce stability is a critical priority outlined in the Trust’s Vision for Causeway. Neil Martin, the Trust’s Director of Planning, Performance and ICT, noted recent progress in this area, including the appointment of two additional consultants to the Emergency Department and the successful recruitment of a consultant cardiologist.
“This is really welcome news and marks good progress on our commitment to stabilising the workforce at Causeway,” Mr Martin remarked, adding that the recruitment of middle-grade doctors reduces reliance on locum staff, creating a stronger foundation for continued workforce development.
As the meeting convened, Causeway Hospital also celebrated the imminent arrival of a new MRI scanner, set to provide local residents with access to advanced diagnostic services without the need to travel to Antrim.
Co-chair and Northern Trust Non-Executive Director Kathy Mackenzie expressed her enthusiasm for the progress made towards the Vision for Causeway, underscoring the importance of community involvement. “As a Causeway resident myself, I know just how passionate the local community is about their hospital, and it is really encouraging to hear the progress that is being made,” she stated.
The meeting was attended by representatives from various Trust services and community organisations, including SOS Causeway, Red Cross, North Coast Community Transport, and the Patient Client Council, highlighting the collaborative spirit driving improvements in healthcare delivery at Causeway Hospital.