PICTURES: New NHS National Treatment Centre in Inverness prepares to open doors
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THE new National Treatment Centre in Inverness will open its doors to the public for the very first time next month for an exclusive first look at the state-of-the-art facility.
Two open days in April will give those based in the Highlands and further afield the chance to attend a guided tour around the specialist treatment facility.
NHS Highland believes it will transform the experience for patients undergoing a range of orthopaedic and ophthalmology procedures including hip and knee replacements and cataract surgery.
Built as part of a Scotland-wide national treatment centre programme aimed at cutting waiting times for patients, the centre will offer a bespoke environment which NHS Highland said has been designed with full input from the clinical teams who will work there as well as patients.
At full capacity, the facility, which will open to patients mid-April, will provide 24 beds, five operating theatres and 13 consulting rooms.
NHS Highland has now recruited 90 per cent of its planned 208-strong workforce for the pioneering facility through their ongoing Aim High, Aim Highland campaign, which set out to encourage people from all over the country to start a new career in the region.
Deborah Jones, NHS Highland director of strategic planning, said: “This is a momentous milestone as we look forward to welcoming the public to get a first glimpse of the National Treatment Centre Highland, and one that is testament to years of hard work from a talented and dedicated team.
“The centre’s design and creation is a true reflection of the innovative, forward-thinking nature of healthcare in the Highlands. Patients are set to benefit not only from beautiful surroundings but also the care of a committed team, thanks to the NTC’s capacity to help tackle the backlog resulting from the challenges of the pandemic.
"The National Treatment Centre will be transformational for patients, and our upcoming open days will allow the public to access the building for the first time, as we prepare for its exciting future.”
The centre will be open to the public on April 1 and 2 between 10am and 5pm. Each tour will be an hour-long duration and slots are on a booking system basis. Those visiting the centre must book a place in order to attend.
There will also be an Easter egg hunt to take part in for those taking children along to the open days.
To book a place for one of the public open day slots, visit www.eventbrite.com/e/ntc-public-open-days-tickets-596900002977.
