THURSDAY, 11 DECEMBER, 2014

IMMEDIATE RELEASE: PHOTOGRAPH ATTACHED: BLAIRGOWRIE COMMUNITY HOSPITAL STAFF IN THE NEW GP UNIT

Patients welcomed into new unit at Blairgowrie Community Hospital

Patients have now moved into a new GP unit at Blairgowrie Community Hospital following the completion of a £2.36million redevelopment project.

Building work began on site in April to provide a modern environment for patient care, incorporating a purpose-built inpatient GP unit.

The hospital now offers an upgraded GP ward facility offering both single and twin rooms, which are all en-suite. The increase in single rooms will also help to accommodate the needs of palliative patients.

The unit has a new enhanced physiotherapy and occupational therapy rehabilitation area, as well as a Minor Injury and Illness Unit (MIIU), which will give clinicians scope to deliver new treatments locally in the future.

The former GP unit will house the locality community mental health services, alongside outpatient clinics and accommodation for community health services.

The NHS Tayside Finance and Resources Committee approved the redevelopment project last year and

Tayside NHS Board Endowment Fund Board of Trustees also approved a significant contribution to the

project.

The Friends of Blairgowrie Community Hospital group also donated £63,000 towards the building’s

redevelopment.

Service Manager for Community Hospitals and Care of the Elderly, Sue Muir said, “We are all delighted that the unit is now ready to welcome patients. The staff are all looking forward to working in a brand new ward that enhances their ability to care for patients.”

NHS Tayside Chairman Sandy Watson said, “This is a significant milestone for Blairgowrie Community Hospital as we welcome patients into the new GP unit. This modern, fit-for-purpose unit will provide great benefits to people in the Strathmore area.

“We committed to providing this new unit three years ago and I am absolutely delighted that we can now provide health services to the people of Strathmore from this purpose built unit.

“Blairgowrie Community Hospital is a vital part of the community and NHS Tayside is proud to be able to deliver high quality healthcare at the heart of the local area.”

Contact:

Debbie Huband

NHS Tayside Communications

(01382) 740134