Ward move to take place at Dr Gray’s Hospital

28 May 2021

NHSG/36/21

Patients currently being cared for on Ward 7 at Dr Gray’s Hospital are being moved to other parts of the hospital, in light of water quality issues on the ward. 

Outlets were sampled as part of ongoing redevelopment work in that part of the hospital, with results revealing a legionella risk. To date no cases have been found in either patients or staff. However, until the risk can be properly investigated and managed, the area will be closed to patients and staff. 

Ward 7 at Dr Gray’s Hospital is on the first floor. The floor below houses a number of Allied Health Professional teams, including physiotherapists, occupational therapists and dietitians, who will also move to other locations while works are carried out. Some medical and administrative staff also have offices in this area, and will require to be relocated in the interim. Some appointments may have to be rescheduled or relocated; patients will be contacted directly by the clinical team as required. 

Alasdair Pattinson, Hospital General Manager, said: “I know this move will cause inconvenience and disruption for patients, their families, and staff alike. However, the safety of everyone in Dr Gray’s Hospital must be a priority. Until we can properly understand and deal with this water quality issue, this is the best course of action. 

“The hospital is busy at present and making changes like this will likely affect the wider staff team. I am extremely grateful to everyone working on this for their flexibility and hard work, at an already pressured time. 

“I want to reassure both patients and their families that care will continue to be delivered, throughout the hospital, to the same high standard. We will be in contact directly with those affected to advise where in the hospital they will be accommodated.”