A new ophthalmology unit has opened at the Mountainhall Treatment Centre in Dumfries.
The spacious unit comprises modern consulting rooms, bright and relaxing waiting areas for patients, and for staff an improved clinical working environment, and dedicated change and rest areas.
Situated on the ground floor of Mountainhall, the unit is now located close to other outpatient services and with easy access to toilets and cafe.
Two weeks before the opening of the new unit the team gathered to bid a fond farewell to ward 17, on the third floor of the former DGRI, with retired staff and others who had moved on attending the event making it even more of a momentous occasion.
The project, led by Keith Thomson of NHS Dumfries and Galloway Estates, took 10 months from initial planning to completion.
He said: “This has been a really satisfying project as staff were more than ready for the move to a modern facility in the kind of environment that allows them to provide the best possible care for patients.
“They have been brilliant to work with and it’s so good to see how happy they are with the new unit.
“In practical terms the layout has been designed fit for purpose and there are improved ventilation and air conditioning systems.
“Aesthetically it’s a really nice space with calming colours and a unique window feature that reflects our focus on wellbeing for patients and staff.
“I’ve been fortunate to work with excellent local and national contractors and a so a big thank you to them for making this a smooth process and contributing to this outcome for patients and staff.”
Derek Beeton, SCN for ophthalmology, said: “Speaking on behalf of the ophthalmology team, we are proud and excited to see the completion of this modern ophthalmology unit.
“ This is the culmination of a significant amount of planning and multidisciplinary input that has ensured we have a unit in which we can deliver the best possible care for our patients.
“On behalf of the team I would like to thank everyone involved in the project for working together to get us to this point, moving to a new unit that we are all really happy with.”
