26th November 2024
The Ambulatory Cardiology Unit (ACU) within the Southern Trust has been widely praised for its innovative approach to improving patient outcomes.
During a recent visit, the Health Minister praised ACU for delivering timely, effective care while reducing the strain on hospital resources.
ACU provides care for patients experiencing new or urgent cardiac symptoms or managing know conditions without the need for hospital admission. By offering rapid evaluation, treatment and follow-up from a dedicated cardiology team, the unit has eased the pressure on Emergency Departments and significantly reduced the in-patient admissions to cardiology wards.
Dr Jude Tweedie, Consultant Cardiologist, highlighted the unit’s achievements over the past three years.
“ACU was established three years ago with the goal of enhancing the patient journey through personalised care, fostering confidence at every step and empowering patients to be active participants in their health and wellbeing,” she explained.
Dr. Tweedie emphasised how the unit bridges a crucial gap in care:
“Many patient don’t need to be in hospital but a routine outpatient setting may not always meet their needs, especially when timely, clinically-driven care is required. That’s where ACU steps in.”
Since its inception, ACU has seen patient numbers grow from 400 per year to approximately 2000 annually. The service is achieving remarkable results, with 80% of patients being seen within two weeks of referral and a reduction in hospital admissions by 50-55%, saving approximately 5000 bed days per year.
Dr Tweedie praised the team’s dedication and expertise: “We have an amazing team who have built strong relationships with our patients, leading to excellent outcomes and overwhelmingly positive patient feedback. Their work is a testament to what can be achieved when healthcare services are designed with patient needs at the forefront”.
On a visit to the Ambulatory Cardiology Unit, Health Minister Mike Nesbitt heard from patients who were full of praise about the relentless professionalism and empathy and humanity of all who work there.
The Health Minister echoed these sentiments during the visit to the unit at Craigavon Area Hospital and noted the welcome addition of ACU given the growing demand for accessible cardiovascular care.
“I spoke to some of the patients on a visit to the Ambulatory Cardiology Unit in Craigavon Area Hospital who were full of praise about the relentless professionalism and empathy and humanity of all who work there.
“The service is fast, delivers great results and is a great example of how our health service can deliver better outcomes for patients.”
Trudy Reid, Director of Medicine and Unscheduled Care, highlighted the far-reaching impact of ACU.
“Ambulatory Cardiology Unit has demonstrated how a small service can make a big difference. By enabling quicker diagnosis, timely interventions, and a streamlined approach to heart health, ACU is setting a new standard for patient care. I am incredibly proud of the teams’ unwavering commitment to enhancing patient care and improving outcomes.”