Physio department transfers to a new home

The physiotherapy service at Sutherland’s Lawson Memorial Hospital has been relocated and is now operating out of a refurbished ward, thanks to a legacy left by a former patient.

Up until now the physiotherapy department was to be found in the old, flat-roofed out-patient block at the Golspie hospital.

But staff and equipment migrated during a two-day period at the start of the month to a renovated former ward in the main hospital building.

And among the improvements to be found in the new unit are individual treatment rooms and a bright and spacious gym.

The premises have been named the Munro Physiotheraphy Department in honour of Rogart crofter Andrew Munro, who left a sizeable bequest to the hospital in appreciation of the care he received there.

The department reopened in its new home on Monday, August 13, and staff will now be able to treat up to 18 new patients a week over and above those already on their books.

Patients and staff have given the new space their seal of approval

Shona Paterson, NHS Highland’s lead physiotherapist for Caithness and Sutherland said: “Thanks to the Munro legacy, we have been able to purchase new equipment in terms of individual treatment and exercise classes.”

Physiotherapy patient Pam Shaw said: “It’s a much airier, brighter and welcoming environment for both staff and clients and the gym is a great addition. It’s lovely to have a private treatment room rather than one large room.”

Eventually as part of phase two of the Lawson’s improvement plans, the entire out-patients’ department will be relocated to the main building.