Patients waiting for planned surgery in Dudley are being offered earlier health checks to identify potential health concerns and give them more time to improve their health before operations.
The new Early Health Screening Service at The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust means issues that might previously have first come to light during preoperative assessments close to surgery can now be identified much earlier in a patient journey.
From high blood pressure, and irregular heart rhythms to lifestyle changes that could affect a patient’s health, the service allows patients to receive advice, support and assessments at an earlier stage.
Dr Anna Pierson, Consultant Anaesthetist and Clinical Lead for Pre-operative Assessment at The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust, said:
"We want patients to see the time between being listed for surgery and attending their pre-operative assessment as an opportunity to improve their health, rather than simply waiting for an operation. Through our Early Health Screening Service, we can identify potential health issues much earlier and provide support, advice and signposting to help patients optimise both their physical and mental wellbeing.
"By engaging with patients at the start of their surgical journey, we have more time to support positive lifestyle changes, address concerns and ensure they are in the best possible condition for surgery. This helps patients feel more prepared and confident ahead of their operation, while reducing the likelihood of unexpected issues being identified closer to the date of surgery."
Diane Wake, Group Chief Executive at the Dudley Group said, “Waiting for surgery can feel like a period of uncertainty, but it can also be a valuable opportunity to prepare. This new service reinforces our commitment to supporting our patients every step of the way and to delivering excellent and efficient patient care.”
The appointment also provides an opportunity for patients to receive personalised advice to help them make positive changes to their health and wellbeing, offering access to other services if they need additional support. The overall aim is to help patients feel stronger, more prepared and more in control while they are waiting for their surgery.