The Breast Care Centre at Ipswich Hospital will fully open to patients tomorrow (Tuesday 24 January) after the final two services move into the brand new state-of-the-art unit.
The breast screening team was the first to begin using the multi-million pound facility earlier in January, and are now being joined by the clinics and imaging department. The move brings all elements of breast care under one roof for the first time, which means that patients will no longer need to walk backwards and forwards between departments, get dressed and undressed several times or spend a long time in waiting rooms.
Mr Hussein Tuffaha, clinical director of breast services at East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust (ESNEFT), which runs Ipswich Hospital, said: “This excellent new facility will help us to make sure that every breast care patient has the best possible experience when they come to hospital.
“Bringing all elements of care under one roof means that our patients can be imaged, biopsied where necessary, and see their clinician in one place, in turn improving convenience and helping us to better meet their needs. The new space will also allow us to offer additional services in the future, such as dedicated clinics for men and young people, which will make a significant difference to our patients.”
Consultant breast surgeon Caroline Mortimer said: “We are thrilled that our new Breast Care Centre has now fully opened. The environment it provides really is first class and will make a huge difference, not only to our patients but to our staff as well.
“This new facility has become a reality thanks to the wonderful support of local people. We are grateful to everyone who has contributed – this truly belongs to the community.”
Allison Chaplin, general manager for breast services, said: “We are absolutely delighted that this vital new centre is to fully open to patients. It will transform the experience they have when they come into hospital by providing them with a high quality environment which matches the outstanding care our clinical teams provide.”
The new centre has been made possible thanks to a partnership between NHS funding from ESNEFT and the Blossom Appeal, which was a fundraiser organised by Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity.
Mandy Jordan, associate director for charities and voluntary services, said: “We would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who supported our fundraising appeal so generously. The money has been used to create a welcoming, modern and tranquil environment which will continue to benefit our patients for years to come.”
The centre will be officially opened later in the spring.
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