PATIENTS with bladder and prostate problems will benefit from a brand new ‘one-stop’ investigation unit that has opened at the Alexandra Hospital in Redditch.

The Urology Investigation Unit (UIU) is a dedicated facility that will mean consultations, investigations and some treatments can be carried out in a single area.

It aims to reduce the need for patients with urology, bladder and prostate issues, including cancer, to undertake multiple visits to the hospital.

The £ 1.6 million purpose-built UIU will provide investigational and treatment services: such as prostate biopsies, bladder endoscopic tests, urinary tract procedures, instillation of bladder treatments, catheter changes and removals; and stent removals.

Colleagues gathered at the UIU this week to officially open the unit.

Mr Vincent Koo, consultant urologist at Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust, said: “The UIU will increase capacity and allow more patients to be investigated in a shorter time frame. It has also enabled the establishment of a Urology Same-Day Emergency Care unit (USDEC) to assess and treat patient with urological problems, away from busy Emergency Department. This is a more efficient way for the correct specialist to treat the appropriate urological problem in a shorter waiting time.”

Mr Steve Goodyear, divisional director for Surgery at the Trust, added: “The launch of this new service is a key part in our vision of the Alexandra Hospital becoming a surgical centre of excellence. It’s a vital part of our plans for the future of our services and our hospitals and a further demonstration of our commitment to providing the best experience of care and outcomes for our patients. As it is a purpose-built investigational unit, it will also provide a supportive environment for staff development, offering opportunities for both clinical and non-clinical staff to develop new skills in various diagnostic and treatment procedures.”

To support the continued development of the UIU and USDEC, Worcestershire Acute Hospitals Charity has also kicked off the Worcestershire Urology Appeal, aiming to raise £25,000 for a specialist chair used to aid prostate cancer diagnosis.

The benefits of having the chair includes lower infection risks, an increase in the number and accuracy of prostate cancer diagnoses, as well as an increase in overall capacity, enabling more patients to receive a timely and accurate diagnosis.

In addition, the charity have utilised funds raised so far to support the creation of innovative artwork and wayfinding installations throughout the new unit.

Currently, the urology service performs approximately 2,500 surgeries, sees over 22,000 patients, and treats 1,500 emergencies across the county each year.