Our Elective Surgical Hub, which has been central in our ongoing work to reduce our waiting lists, has been shortlisted for two HSJ Awards.

It has been recognised in both the Acute Sector Innovation of the Year and Performance Recovery Award categories.

The hub, based at King George Hospital, has enabled us to keep surgical beds free for patients waiting for planned care, instead of them being used for emergency cases. It’s what has allowed us to undertake a variety of high volume ‘super weeks’ to help reduce our waiting lists.

It was one of the first across the country to be accredited as part of a national scheme which recognises high standards and a commitment to offer training. A £14m expansion, including two new theatres, is also underway.

Our Gastroenterology team has also been shortlisted in the partnership award category for its work with Medefer.

The partnership began when our team had a high number of referrals, which were affecting waiting times. Medefer provides a virtual triaging service for GP referrals, sending only those patients who require hospital care to our Trust.

The winners will be announced at a ceremony in London this November.