BUPA builds new theatre and ward in north east

The development at BUPA Hospital Washington will equip the hospital to treat patients for procedures including orthopaedics, general surgery, spinal surgery, ear, nose and throat surgery and plastic surgery, as part of a contract with the Department of Health’s Independent Sector Treatment Programme.

General Manager at BUPA Hospital Washington John O’Brien said: “Being awarded the NHS contract is an opportunity for BUPA to expand its high quality treatment and excellent hospital care to more people in the North East. BUPA’s commitment to putting patients first will be extended to NHS-referred patients and the improved hospital facilities will benefit everyone visiting, staying and working with us.”

Predicting the extension work to complete in early summer 2008, David Smailes, of building project contractor Bluestone, was joined by Roma Holland, matron and head of clinical services and Martin Rennison, BUPA commissioning manager, at a ceremonial turf cutting event to mark the start of the work.

Smailes said: “As a major provider of flexible multi-purpose buildings for hospitals and the healthcare sector we are looking forward to working with BUPA on this new extension, which will offer a host of new facilities to the local community.”