Employing modular theatres to tackle the backlog of operations

Published: 22-Jun-2020

We speak to Alan Wilson, managing director of ModuleCo Healthcare, to find out how the NHS can use offsite construction methods to help ease the surgical backlog caused by COVID-19

Recent announcements regarding the backlog of operations due to COVID-19 are a huge cause for concern for NHS trusts nationwide, particularly with the estimated figures now anticipating that more than 650,000 patients are awaiting non-urgent surgical procedures.

With this, healthcare managers are being forced to look into alternative routes to meet the expected demand.

One such method that should be seriously considered is sourcing modular healthcare buildings, which can work as both temporary and permanent fixtures, allowing an NHS trust to expand its capacity.

Modular theatres are a viable solution to help the NHS clear the backlog of operations because they can be provided so quickly – they are available for hire immediately and can be manufactured, installed, and operation-ready in a matter of weeks.

NHS trusts will continue to be under immense pressure once the pandemic subsides because the recovery process will be such a comprehensive task.

A lack of finances is likely to be a huge burden on NHS trusts in the coming months, particularly with the added pressure of the operational backlog, which is expected to cost the NHS in excess of £4billion

With this, hospital staff must have access to facilities to suit the specific needs and requirements of their patients.

Modular buildings can be designed completely bespoke, ensuring that NHS trusts can make the most of these top-quality facilities.

Benefits of hiring

A lack of finances is likely to be a huge burden on NHS trusts in the coming months, particularly with the added pressure of the operational backlog, which is expected to cost the NHS in excess of £4billion.

This distinct lack of funds could prove detrimental to both patient care and staff morale, particularly since NHS workers are already hugely busy and have spent months working to keep the nation safe from the coronavirus.

Now, more than ever, it’s essential to try and make their jobs as easy as possible.

Modular buildings are an ideal solution at this time because they are available on flexible rental agreements, with little to no upfront capital required.

At ModuleCo Healthcare we can complete the entire process of supplying a modular theatre, from preparing the site to installing the modules and even providing specialist theatre equipment.

We manage the entire process with all costs condensed into one affordable, monthly amount. This provides a cost-effective solution for NHS trusts to expand their theatre capacity without needing to bear huge financial expenditure immediately.

Modular theatres, in particular, will help to clear the surgical backlog

Modular theatres, in particular, will help to clear the surgical backlog

Consider the bigger picture

Modular construction has come on tremendously in recent years, resulting in high-quality, contemporary healthcare buildings that are a fantastic addition to any hospital estate.

Moreover, they can be utilised far beyond the COVID-19 recovery process, assisting with other difficult periods for the NHS, such as the rising pressure during winter months.

Currently, modular buildings are designed to be both reusable and relocatable, and it is relatively simple to extend existing buildings to increase capacity.

Modular construction has come on tremendously in recent years, resulting in high-quality, contemporary healthcare buildings that are a fantastic addition to any hospital estate

Unfortunately, the situation is likely to worsen as the pandemic continues and winter draws closer, meaning NHS waiting lists are expected to reach above 10 million before the end of the year.

With this in mind, the flexibility and efficiency offered by modular theatres and ward space is certainly desirable.

By opting to install modular theatres at this time, NHS trusts can use these facilities to help improve patient care and deliver more surgical procedures.

However, the potential of these buildings goes further still – NHS trusts could create new, much-needed revenue streams further down the line if they make the investment today.

Ultimately, modular theatres offer fast, cost-effective building solutions for the NHS, while providing exceptionally-high-quality results with the ability to drive new revenue.

With pressures on the NHS mounting because of the issues caused by COVID-19, there’s no time like the present to use these buildings to increase resources and expand capacity to help ensure that NHS employees can work in a supportive, functioning environment.

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