CEO’s Blog

Dear all,

Everywhere I’ve gone this week I’ve been hugely impressed by the response of my colleagues to what is undoubtedly the biggest test the NHS has faced in living memory. These are truly exceptional times.

At UHDB this week we’ve seen the first deaths of patients as a result of COVID-19. Our condolences and sympathy are naturally with those families affected. This also serves to emphasise the seriousness of the situation and the responsibility we have to care for and protect the public during the course of this epidemic.

Last weekend, we took a major step forward when we switched on a single RIS/PACS system, which allows any clinician on any site to access digital diagnostic images, X-rays, CT and MR scans etc. It was great to catch-up with Penny Owens and Dave Tipper earlier this week to hear about the big switch-over last weekend. Being able to access clinical systems has been a frustration for staff who work across our five main sites, so I’m pleased that we’ve made this big step forward. 

In his blog this week, CEO Gavin Boyle shares thoughts on our Vital Signs programme, Ward 402 at RDH, Sterile Services at QHB and a heart-warming patient reunion that took place in Derby's Intensive Care Unit on Wednesday. 

Blog readers will remember that, about six months ago, we held our very first Quality Improvement Summit, at QHB. This week was our second Summit – this time at RDH. It was a terrific opportunity to see some of the incredible work being done across UHDB to deliver better care for patients.