McAlpine praises hospital during Health Secretary visit

MSP Joan McAlpine praised the new Dumfries hospital as Health Secretary Shona Robison had a tour of the facility yesterday.

 

The £274 million facility is one of the most technologically advanced in the UK. 

 

Each of the 344 single rooms has its own computer point, allowing staff to update patient records on the spot.

 

The construction of the hospital – funded by the SNP government – was completed on budget and on time last year.

 

Commenting, Ms McAlpine said:

 

“I had the chance to visit the new hospital this week, along with Cabinet Secretary Shona Robison. 

 

“The facility really is something special – and I say that as someone who has recently stayed over-night in a central belt hospital with an ill relative.

 

“The rooms are very spacious and allow patients privacy and dignity – something missing from the usual four bed wards where is can be hard to rest.”

 

The new DGRI boasts a cutting-edge design as well as all the latest technology, so patients from across the region will receive the highest standards of treatment and care. 

 

Ms McAlpine said:

 

“The design of the new complex is focussed squarely on patient care.

 

“The nursing model has moved from a central bay to one where nurses are caring for small groups of patients, and a new intercom system saves time by allowing patients to speak with nurses remotely. 

 

“Curtains have been replaced with glass ‘smart walls’ that turn opaque when privacy is needed, and a state of the art system allows from fresh air and gives a therapeutic feel. 

 

“The designers really have thought of everything – from landscaped gardens for visitors and chairs that turn to beds in the children’s ward should parents need to stay over, it really is a fantastic building.”