GLH APPOINTS NEW HEAD OF CLINICAL SERVICES

Welcome Sandy Haughton, Head of Clinical Services

Sandy brings a wealth of director-level experience to her new role which will see her manage the increasing use of the hospital’s general anaesthetic theatre.Welcome Sandy Haughton, Head of Clinical Services.

She will also liaise closely with NHS Trusts across the North West to promote Greater Lancashire Hospital’s listing on NHS England’s Patient Choice Framework, which enables GPs and their NHS patients to book the most convenient appointments for their requirements. 

Based in Ribbleton’s Millennium City Park, Greater Lancashire Hospital was founded in 2014 and works closely with some of the UK’s best-known consultants and medical practitioners.

Sandy, Head of Clinical Services, said:

“Greater Lancashire Hospital was created by local people for the direct benefit of local residents – and this ethos was one of the main reasons why I wanted to work here.

“The facilities are purpose-built with a carefully designed layout that ensures everything works seamlessly. For example, the general anaesthetic theatre is right at the side of the ambulatory care department, which can be rare within some hospitals.

“In addition to managing the general anaesthetic theatre, I’ll also be liaising closely with NHS Trusts from across the region as well as our own roster of outstanding consultants to ensure that patients receive exceptional care from their first visit onwards.”

Sandy has extensive experience in management, having spent a decade overseeing regional operations within private healthcare, following several years of service in the public healthcare sector.

The mother-of-one from Wigan has previously completed a part-time law degree at University of Central Lancashire while working full-time. 

Gwam Rajiah, Executive Chairman of Greater Lancashire Hospital, said:

“Sandy is a fantastic addition to our growing team – and she’s arrived at a key moment in the hospital’s evolution.

“In recent months, our general anaesthetic theatre has become increasingly busy as a direct result of our listing on NHS England’s Patient Choice Framework, which allows NHS patients and their GPs to book the most convenient appointment with a consultant of their choosing.

“I know that Sandy’s looking forward to liaising with NHS Trusts across the North West to ensure that even more patients can benefit from our commitment to supporting them along every step of their healthcare journey.”

Greater Lancashire Hospital remains the only hospital in the area to be rated “outstanding” for patient care by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

GLH AWARDED PLANNING PERMISSION

FINAL PHASE OF NEW £1.5M ANNEX

  • Greater Lancashire Hospital receives planning permission to finish major new annex 
  • £1.5m annex will provide state-of-the-art facilities at the North West’s heart 
  • ‘Phase One’ was successfully completed ahead of schedule earlier this summer  

Greater Lancashire Hospital (GLH) has been granted planning permission to commence construction work on the final phase of its state-of-the-art £1.5m annex. 

The new building – which will operate in unison with the hospital’s original adjacent site in Preston – will substantially increase the capacity of NHS patients it can welcome from across the North West when it opens in spring 2025. 

Greater Lancashire Hospital was recently added to the NHS Choose & Book NHS e-Referral system which was introduced to maximise patient choice.

The Ribbleton-based hospital has now received the green light from Preston City Council to build a large glass atrium at the front of its new annex, increase the size of windows in the same building and construct a new energy efficiency resource hub to one side.

In addition, the family-owned hospital has received permission to create a new entrance on Longridge Road and to increase the number of free parking spaces available to patients from 35 to 60. 

These developments follow the successful conclusion of ‘Phase One’ earlier this summer, which resulted in the fit-out of the annex’s new ultrasound suite, dedicated teleradiology suite, seven consulting rooms and a reception to the clinical suite.

The original Greater Lancashire Hospital has been transforming the health of locally-based NHS and private patients since it was founded by Preston-headquartered entrepreneurs Sara and Gwam Rajiah in 2014.

Gwam Rajiah, executive chairman of Greater Lancashire Hospital, said: “We’re creating a state-of-the-art, purpose-built hospital at the North West’s heart – and that’s fabulous for patients as well as this region’s medical professionals.

“Our new annex will ensure that the very best diagnostics and treatment are available to even more NHS and private patients precisely when this is required.”

Mr Rajiah expects the new facility will create at least 50 new clinical roles and an additional 20 clerical roles when it opens next spring.

The plans for the new 10,000 sq ft annex, which occupies the former Synetics building, have been drawn up by Preston-based architects RPS Design Group.

The building work is being overseen by Greater Lancashire Hospital’s director of investment and development, Myles Rajiah, who said: “This is the final phase of the annex’s development, and we expect work to commence imminently and last until next spring.

“The new entrance on Longridge Road will transform the accessibility of both our existing hospital as well as the new annex and we also intend to landscape the grounds to ensure the greatest visual appeal from the moment patients arrive.”

Greater Lancashire Hospital, which is part of Preston-headquartered Bespoke Healthcare Group, is the only hospital in the area that has currently received ‘outstanding’ for patient care by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

PATIENT CHOICE WIDENS

Greater Lancashire Hospital selected for NHS choose & book system

  • Greater Lancashire Hospital listed for first time on major NHS ‘Choose and Book’ platform
  • Patients to see leading consultants at first appointment to deliver shorter healthcare journeys
  • GPs and patients can now opt for “a “local hospital run for local people by local people” 

Patients across the North West can now receive treatment from some of the UK’s leading consultants at the earliest opportunity as a direct result of Greater Lancashire Hospital being selected for the NHS ‘Choose and Book’ portal for the first time.

The Preston-based hospital’s extensive range of services have been fully registered on the online booking platform enabling patients and their GPs to choose the best specialist and most convenient time for their requirements. 

Greater Lancashire Hospital is unique in that patients will be seen by some of the UK’s top consultants and clinicians at their first appointment, meaning a quicker diagnosis and a shortening of their healthcare journey.

Services currently include neurology, neurophysiology, cardiology, women’s health, urology, dermatology, radiology and vascular medicine. Other areas of out-patient expertise include ear, nose and throat (ENT), plastic and cosmetic surgery, pain management, eye surgery as well as respiratory medicine.

Based in Ribbleton’s Millennium City Park, Greater Lancashire Hospital remains the only hospital in the area to be classed “outstanding” for patient care by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

Gwam Rajiah, Co-founder and Executive Chairman of Greater Lancashire Hospital, said:

“We’ve always been committed to driving down patient waiting times by providing seamless healthcare pathways while ensuring the highest standards of care delivered in thoroughly modern surroundings.”

“Our registration with the Choose and Book platform allows us to take this to the next level for even more people here in Lancashire and the North West by ensuring they can see one of the UK’s best consultants as quickly and conveniently as possible.”

Choose and Book, which is also known as the NHS e-Referral Service (e-RS) Manage Your Referral system, was established in 2005 to provide patients with greater control over their healthcare. 

It allows patients to check, cancel or change their bookings online while simultaneously streamlining the whole referral process.

Gwam continued: “With all our services now live for patients across the North West through the Choose and Book portal, the decision couldn’t be simpler.

“Greater Lancashire Hospital is owned and operated by local people for local people, and we look forward to welcoming even more patients through our doors with a warm smile, a drink and nothing short of first-class service.”

MRI Scanning services Now Live

Greater Lancashire Hospital is now running MRI scanning services local to the Preston area via self–pay referrals, insured and the NHS choose and book facility.

We are one of the independent specialist providers for MRI scans. 

Our mission is to provide a patient centric, high quality private and NHS diagnostic service at a very affordable price and accessible to everybody. 

We provide specialist MRI scanning services seven days a week, supported by our friendly and knowledgeable patient care team, who will support you every step of your healthcare journey with us. 

Patients could get MRI scans with self-referrals, GP referrals or the NHS services pathways. 

Work commences on new £1.5m annex to Greater Lancashire Hospital

Work officially begins on purpose-built annex to Greater Lancashire Hospital

  • Work officially begins on purpose-built annex to Greater Lancashire Hospital
  • Phase one will create a new state-of-the-art ultrasound suite and consulting rooms 
  • “A Lancashire Hospital operated by local people for local people” 

Greater Lancashire Hospital has commenced building work on a £1.5m annex located at the side of its current premises in Preston.

The building will welcome NHS patients from across Lancashire and the North West when it opens in Ribbleton’s Millennium City Park this autumn.

Fit-out work has now commenced on phase one which includes a state-of-the-art ultrasound suite, dedicated physiotherapy and gym areas, seven consulting rooms as well as a reception to the clinical suite.

The original Greater Lancashire Hospital has been transforming the health of locally-based residents since it was founded by Preston-headquartered entrepreneurs Sara and Gwam Rajiah in 2014.

Working closely with some of the UK’s best-known consultants and medical practitioners, the hospital supports regional NHS trusts and private healthcare patients.

Gwam Rajiah, executive chairman of Greater Lancashire Hospital, said: “This new annex will ensure that the best medical care is available for even more Lancashire and North West people.

“But it’s also a really exciting development in the evolution of Greater Lancashire Hospital as we seek to cater for a constantly increasing appetite for our services.”

Mr Rajiah expects the new 10,000 sq ft annex – which occupies the former Synetics building – will create at least 50 new clinical roles and an additional 20 clerical roles upon completion.

Complete with 30 free car parking spaces accessible via a soon-to-be created entrance on Longridge Road, the annex will operate in unison with Greater Lancashire Hospital’s original, neighbouring site.

Among the Preston-based contractors currently working on the first phase of the annex are Wyder Construction and air conditioning specialists DD Cooling.

The building work is being overseen by Greater Lancashire Hospital’s director of investment and development, Myles Rajiah, who said: “We’re already well ahead of schedule and that’s testament to the skill, professionalism and expertise of Wyder Construction’s team.

“At any time, there are more than 50 different contractors on site – all of whom are from Preston and the surrounding area.

“The state-of-the-art air filtration and extraction system, which is also fully compliant with the strictest NHS guidelines, is the most recent component to be installed.”

Greater Lancashire Hospital, which is part of Preston-headquartered Bespoke Healthcare Group, is the only hospital in the area that has currently received ‘outstanding’ for patient care by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

The hospital is an approved supplier to the NHS which allows trusts to refer patients directly to its facilities for a wide range of NHS services ensuring that patients can be seen by medical professionals within a suitable timeframe.

Opening of General Anaesthetic Theatre

Opening of General Anaesthetic Theatre

As part of our continued development, we are delighted to announce that we have now completed phase 2 of our project plan to be able to further enhance our General Anaesthetic theatre at Greater Lancashire Hospital.

To be able to transform our hospital to this level will enable us to significantly improve and enhance the patient care and service to our partners in the local community.

Our family run hospital is committed to continuing to be a leading independent provider in the region with our ethos and core values at the heart of everything we do! 

Gwam

Managing Director

Relieving the Burden of Migraines

Relieving the Burden of Migraines: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
 

What are migraines?

Migraines are more than just headaches. They are complex neurological conditions that can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. In this comprehensive blog post, we aim to shed light on migraines, offering valuable information on their diagnosis, treatment options, and preventive measures. By understanding the causes, triggers, and available management strategies, individuals can find relief from the burden of migraines and regain control over their lives.

Understanding Migraines:

Migraines are characterized by recurring moderate to severe headaches, often accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and in some cases, visual disturbances. While the exact cause of migraines remains elusive, various factors, including genetics, hormonal changes, environmental triggers, and underlying neurological abnormalities, may contribute to their onset.

Diagnosis and Identifying Triggers:

Accurate diagnosis plays a crucial role in managing migraines effectively. We discuss the importance of seeking medical evaluation to rule out other potential causes and determine if migraines are the underlying issue. Additionally, we explore common triggers such as certain foods, stress, hormonal changes, environmental factors, and sleep disturbances. Recognising personal triggers can help individuals take proactive steps towards preventing migraine episodes.

Treatment Options:

There is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to migraine treatment. We provide an overview of both acute and preventive measures that individuals can consider based on their specific needs and severity of migraines. Acute treatment options include over-the-counter pain relievers, prescription medications, and lifestyle modifications, while preventive measures may involve prescription medications, dietary changes, stress management techniques, and regular exercise.

Lifestyle Modifications and Self-Care:

In addition to medical interventions, we emphasize the importance of lifestyle modifications in managing migraines. From maintaining a regular sleep schedule and managing stress levels to implementing relaxation techniques and practicing healthy dietary habits, small but impactful changes can make a significant difference in reducing the frequency and intensity of migraines.

Personalised Care and Seeking Professional Advice:

Every individual’s experience with migraines is unique, necessitating a personalised approach to treatment. We encourage readers to consult with healthcare professionals specialising in migraine management for accurate diagnosis, personalised treatment plans, and ongoing support. Medical professionals can help identify suitable treatment options, monitor progress, and adjust the management approach as needed.

Empowering Individuals and Enhancing Well-being:

Living with migraines can be challenging, but it’s important for individuals to remember that they are not alone. By understanding the nature of migraines, identifying triggers, and seeking appropriate medical care, individuals can take control of their condition and find relief from the burden of migraines. We provide encouragement, support, and resources to empower individuals to lead fulfilling lives despite living with migraines.

Getting Help 

If you are concerned, don’t suffer in silence. Book a consultation with our kind and discreet experts. You can call us on 01772 663977, email the team on info@greaterlancashirehospital or send us a secure message on our website. 

Correcting Droopy Eyelids

Correcting Droopy Eyelids: Understanding Ptosis and Treatment Options
 

What is Ptosis?

Ptosis, commonly known as droopy eyelids, is a condition that can affect individuals of all ages, causing their eyelids to sag or droop lower than normal. This condition not only affects the appearance but can also impact vision and self-confidence. In this informative blog post, we delve into the details of ptosis, including its causes, symptoms, and available treatment options.

Causes of Ptosis:

Ptosis can result from various factors, including age-related weakening of the eyelid muscles, congenital or birth-related issues, muscle or nerve damage, eye trauma, or certain medical conditions. Understanding the underlying cause is crucial in determining the most suitable treatment approach.

Symptoms of Ptosis:

The primary symptom of ptosis is the drooping of one or both eyelids, which can vary in severity. Individuals with ptosis may experience obstructed vision, eye fatigue, eyebrow strain from constantly lifting the eyelids, and a tired or sad appearance. Recognising these symptoms can prompt individuals to seek appropriate evaluation and treatment.

Treatment Options:

Fortunately, several treatment options are available for correcting ptosis and restoring a more youthful and alert appearance to the eyes. The appropriate treatment method depends on the severity of ptosis and its underlying cause. Here are some common treatment options:

Ptosis Correction Surgery:

This surgical procedure involves tightening or repositioning the weakened eyelid muscles to raise the eyelids to their desired position. It can improve both the cosmetic appearance and functionality of the eyes, relieving any vision-related issues caused by droopy eyelids.

Non-Surgical Approaches:

In some cases, non-surgical interventions such as specialised eyelid exercises, the use of eye drops or ointments, or the application of eyelid tapes or prosthetic devices may be recommended. These approaches can provide temporary relief or serve as alternatives for individuals who are not suitable candidates for surgery.

Consultation and Professional Advice:

If you suspect that you or someone you know may have ptosis, it is essential to consult with an experienced ophthalmologist or oculoplastic surgeon. They will conduct a comprehensive evaluation, including an examination of your eyelid structure, muscle strength, and overall eye health, to determine the underlying cause and recommend the most appropriate treatment option.

Remember, each case of ptosis is unique, and a personalised approach is necessary for optimal results. By understanding the causes, recognising the symptoms, and exploring the available treatment options, individuals with ptosis can make informed decisions to improve their eyelid functionality, restore confidence, and enhance their overall well-being.

Getting Help 

If you are concerned, don’t suffer in silence. Book a consultation with our kind and discreet experts. You can call us on 01772 663977, email the team on info@greaterlancashirehospital or send us a secure message on our website. 

5 Symptoms of Heart Disease

Understanding the Warning Signs: 5 Symptoms of Heart Disease You Shouldn’t Ignore
 

Heart disease is a serious condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Recognising the warning signs and seeking timely medical attention can make a significant difference in managing the disease and preventing potential complications.

In this blog post, we shed light on the five key symptoms of heart disease that individuals should never ignore.

1. Chest Pain

Chest pain or discomfort is one of the most common signs of heart disease. It may manifest as a squeezing or tightness in the chest, pressure, or a heavy sensation. The pain may also radiate to the arms, shoulders, neck, jaw, or back. Understanding the nature and duration of chest pain can help individuals identify whether it is related to heart health.

2. Shortness of Breath

Breathlessness or difficulty in breathing, especially during physical exertion or while lying down, can be an indication of heart disease. It may be accompanied by a rapid or irregular heartbeat. Paying attention to any persistent changes in your breathing patterns is crucial.

3. Fatigue and Weakness

Feeling unusually tired or experiencing persistent fatigue, even after adequate rest, can be a sign of heart disease. The heart’s reduced ability to pump blood efficiently can lead to a lack of oxygen supply to the body’s tissues, resulting in fatigue and weakness.

4. Dizziness and Fainting

Heart disease can disrupt blood flow to the brain, leading to episodes of dizziness or lightheadedness. Fainting or syncope can also occur due to a sudden drop in blood pressure. If you experience these symptoms, it is important to consult a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause.

5. Swelling and Fluid Retention

Heart disease can cause fluid to accumulate in the body, resulting in swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, or abdomen. This condition, known as edema, may be accompanied by weight gain and a bloated sensation. Recognizing and monitoring changes in your body’s fluid balance is essential.

 

By familiarising yourself with these five symptoms of heart disease, you can be proactive in seeking appropriate medical care when necessary. Remember, early detection and intervention are key to managing heart disease effectively. Prioritising your cardiovascular health and promptly addressing any concerns can contribute to a healthier and happier life

Getting Help 

If you are concerned, don’t suffer in silence. Book a consultation with our kind and discreet cardiology experts. You can call us on 01772 663977, email the team on info@greaterlancashirehospital or send us a secure message on our website.