BOA response to Department of Health and Social Care capital investment to address seasonal challenges
The Secretary of State yesterday announced capital investment funding of over £1.5 billion to help NHS hospitals withstand year-round pressure for the NHS, in particular to address the health impacts of this Summer's record-breaking heat on NHS demand and staff. The announcement includes:
- More than 950 projects will make NHS hospitals safer, more resilient and better equipped to care for patients.
- Over £200 million for 10 major projects, including new operating theatres, children’s wards and improved maternity and mental health facilities.
- 1.3 billion for maintenance, safety and resilience projects across the NHS estate, including £32 million for specific projects that are improving cooling and ventilation systems and strengthening hospitals’ resilience to extreme heat.
- Investment will help hospitals prepare for winter and extreme weather, and protect capacity to help alleviate pressures on the health sector
Details of the announcement can be viewed here.
Fergal Monsell, BOA President, said,
“I have today written to the Secretary of State acknowledging the difference this capital investment should make. I have highlighted the challenges that many members have articulated over the summer regarding unacceptable temperature and humidity in operating theatres and the impact this has had on patients, on surgeons and the wider team. I have also urged that once again, ‘winter pressures’ must not be allowed to compromise any improvements made in addressing the T&O waiting lists.
The BOA is developing guidance to support members in securing safe and acceptable temperatures and humidity levels in operating theatres. Currently there are numerous and differing sources of advice and requirements for the conditions on operating theatres. I have urged the Secretary of State to seek to rationalise this situation and will share the BOA guidance with the DHSC as soon as it is finalised.”