A former COVID-19 ward at Craigavon Area Hospital has been transformed into a permanent general medical ward.
The team in 3 North are now providing inpatient care for adult patients with a range of medical conditions.
The respiratory ward for COVID-19 patients at Daisy Hill Hospital has already been repurposed as a new Ambulatory Unit.
Explaining the changes Director for Medicine and Unscheduled Care for the Southern Trust, Trudy Reid said: “I would like to pay tribute to all of our dedicated staff who worked under difficult and often uncertain circumstances to look after COVID-19 patients throughout the pandemic. Whilst we are still seeing cases of COVID in the community, now thankfully with the success of the vaccine, less require this specialist inpatient care.
“We aim to provide the right care, in the right place, at the right time for patients to meet their clinical needs. This is often in the community, for example supported by Acute Care at Home, or where possible through Same Day Emergency Care services which offer assessment, diagnosis and treatment in hospital without the need for admission.
Sr Norma Parker Ward Manager and Rebecca McConnell, Housekeeper
“In addition to our existing medical wards at Craigavon and Daisy Hill hospitals, the transformation of 3 North allows us to care for those patients who do require an inpatient admission.
“We have a fantastic team of clinical, administration and domestic service staff who are committed to giving their patients the best possible care with great compassion during their stay on 3 North.”
The team are also working towards developing an inpatient specialty in diabetes and endocrinology in the longer term.
Staff Nurse Grainne Scullion
Sr Erin Cassidy with consultants Dr Mousa and Dr Mohamed
