PATIENTS visiting Kidderminster Hospital for scheduled day surgeries will notice some changes to the waiting area before their operation.

The refurbished waiting room means men and women will now wait in their own dedicated area, which the hospital trust says will enhance privacy and dignity and improve patient experience.

The new-look room is designed to give a calm, quiet, private space where surgeons, anaesthetic and nursing staff can talk through any concerns or queries with patients before their procedure.

Being located just a short distance from the theatres, it also means that surgery lists can start promptly, avoiding any unnecessary delays.

Tammie Mason, Ward One manager at Kidderminster Hospital and Treatment Centre, said : “Listening to and learning from the feedback provided by patients and their carers through our friends and family test, we know that providing dedicated same-sex waiting areas enhances privacy and dignity for our patients who are waiting for surgery and is key to improving their overall experience when visiting the hospital."

Funding to enhance the theatre assessment area came from Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust charitable funds.

Tammie added: “We are extremely grateful for the funding that has enabled us to introduce same-sex waiting areas in the department.

"Our priority is always providing safe, dignified, compassionate care for our patients, and a safe and supportive working environment for our staff, with everyone focused on putting our patients first.”