Ridgeway Ward transformed into a dedicated unit for patients having elective orthopaedic surgery

8 August 2024

Dorset County Hospital (DCH) has opened a new dedicated unit for people having orthopaedic surgery.

Existing ward space has been transformed into the Ridgeway Elective Orthopaedic Unit, which includes a new admissions lounge for people coming in for orthopaedic surgery and a therapy suite to support patients with their recovery.

Funded by NHS England, the £1.4million scheme is the second phase of a programme to reduce waiting times for appointments and surgery, which included the creation of the Outpatient Assessment Centre at South Walks House in Dorchester town centre.

Anita Thomas, Chief Operating Officer at Dorset County Hospital, said:

“This funding has allowed us to transform the former Ridgeway Ward and will make such a difference to people waiting for elective orthopaedic surgery. We will be able to reduce waiting times, treat people more quickly and support their recovery, so they spend less time in hospital.”

The new unit will allow people to be admitted for their orthopaedic surgery more quickly, and also enable patients to go home sooner to continue their recovery.

Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon at Dorset County Hospital Nick Savva said:

“We have been very fortunate to have been given the opportunity to develop the Ridgeway Orthopaedic Elective Unit. It has been designed to the highest standards and will facilitate world class levels of care and efficiency."