New £15m state-of-the-art Endoscopy Unit now complete

The construction of the new £15m Endoscopy Unit at the Cumberland Infirmary (CIC) is now complete, and will welcome its first patients later this month.

Clinicians, staff, and key partners had the opportunity to come and see the new unit before patients move in.

This new Endoscopy Unit will be able to treat more patients, helping to reduce our waiting lists and improve timely diagnosis, particularly for cancers.

It includes five clinical rooms and an outpatient area, enabling more patients to receive endoscopy procedures locally.

Dr Adrian Clements, Executive Medical Director for NCIC, said: “It was great to see the finished unit today, it looks fantastic and everyone involved in making this happen should feel very proud.

£This modern new facility will make a huge difference to both our patients and our staff, and it is great to see the hard work of a number of people and organisations come together to create a unit that will support outstanding care.”

Some key benefits of the new unit include:

• Patients will be able to access endoscopy faster – more patients will receive their diagnostic procedure within six weeks of referral in line with national standards
• The additional rooms will have capacity to provide more lists per week avoiding unnecessary travel outside of the region.
• It will also ensure the Cumberland Infirmary meets National Standards and future proofs the service to meet the needs of our patients across North Cumbria.

Craig Farrow, Commercial Director at Ergéa UK, said: “We’re incredibly proud to be part of this project, which marks a significant milestone in our partnership with the Trust.

“Together, we have created a modern, state of the art clinical facility that will play a critical role in transforming the patient experience and support positive outcomes.

“We’re excited for the official opening and to witness first hand the positive impact this unit will have on the local community.”

Recently Endoscopy services at both CIC and West Cumberland Hospital achieved national JAG accreditation, reflecting the high standard of care patients receive in north Cumbria.

JAG accreditation is a national process that provides independent and impartial recognition that a service demonstrates high quality and consistent care.

Ergéa UK, in collaboration with Actiform, utilised the latest Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) to ensure the building meets high environmental standards and complies with national healthcare regulations.