New urology unit helps free up hospital beds

A new urology unit is helping free up hospital beds at the Royal Stoke University Hospital.

(c) University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust

(c) University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust

The nurse-led Urology Ambulatory Unit (UAU) supports patients who are well enough to remain mobile and do not require an inpatient bed.

Kay Willard, lead urology nurse and lead advanced clinical practitioner, said: ‘The UAU is for patients who don't need a hospital bed but still need fast, specialist urology care. By seeing people in a dedicated space, we can treat them quickly and safely while freeing up beds on the wards.

‘Instead of patients waiting in a bed for a specialist to visit them, they now come directly to our team. It reduces delays and means they get the right care straightaway.'

Launched in 2026, the service, which includes over 30 people, brings the urology team together with consultants and the Central Treatment Suite.

Willard added: ‘The space also allows experienced and newer staff to work side by side, helping us build a strong, sustainable workforce. I'm incredibly grateful to our managerial colleagues who made the move possible, their support has helped us create a unit we're proud of.'

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