REACT Supports A&E Patients at Worcester Royal Hospital

Pictured: Responder Steve and Sister escort a patient from the temporary A&E waiting room. Credit: Olivia Everett

The newly established Accident & Emergency (A&E) department at Worcestershire Royal Hospital has been forced to temporarily close its waiting room due to issues with the floor, creating an urgent need for alternative measures to ensure patient care is uninterrupted. In response, a team of volunteers from REACT has stepped in to provide vital assistance to patients and staff, helping to maintain the smooth operation of the hospital's emergency services during this difficult period.

The Situation at Worcestershire Royal Hospital

In July 2023, Princess Anne officially opened the state-of-the-art A&E department at Worcestershire Royal Hospital, which began receiving patients in October. However, within months, structural issues with the flooring were discovered, necessitating the closure of the waiting area. As a result, patients have been relocated to a temporary waiting room on the first floor of the Aconbury East building, while contractors work on fixing the flooring issue in the original emergency department.

Despite the temporary changes, the hospital has assured that emergency services will remain accessible, with special attention to ensuring road-level entry for ambulances and those using the children's emergency department. Signage and extra staff have been deployed to help patients navigate the temporary waiting area, but the upheaval has placed additional strain on the hospital’s A&E department.

REACT's Rapid Response

In the wake of the disruption, REACT’s volunteer Responders quickly mobilised to provide much-needed support. Their deployment has been a lifeline for both patients and staff, with 21 dedicated volunteers contributing over 448.5 hours of service so far. 

Responders have been instrumental in helping the hospital navigate this difficult period by:

Guiding Lost Patients: With the relocation of the waiting room, confusion among patients has been common. Responders have played a crucial role in directing patients to the correct departments, helping to reduce stress and anxiety during an already difficult time.  

Supporting Families in Crisis: Responders have also provided emotional support to families in distress, helping to ease the strain on both patients and their loved ones.

Assisting in Patient Mobility: Responders have helped patients with mobility challenges, particularly those requiring wheelchairs to move between departments, ensuring they receive timely care.

Facilitating Patient Transfers: The team has been actively involved in assisting with the smooth transfer of patients between departments, minimising delays and improving overall patient flow.

Making a Difference and Demonstrating Compassion

Responder Morgan Schmeising went above and beyond when assisting a patient with an ankle injury, arranging for a local bus service to pick him up from near to the A&E department. Not only did she organise his transportation, but she also generously paid for his bus fare when it became clear the patient had no financial means. Morgan’s act of kindness highlights the personal impact that REACT Responders are making in the lives of people affected by the current challenges at the hospital.

The Road Ahead

The remedial work on the hospital’s A&E waiting area is ongoing, with plans to restore the original waiting room and triage service as soon as the floor repairs are completed. In the meantime, REACT’s continued presence at Worcestershire Royal Hospital is a welcome support system for the hospital staff, alleviating pressure and ensuring patients receive the care and attention they need.

REACT's response to this particular crisis has demonstrated the power of community action and volunteerism in helping public institutions cope with unexpected challenges. Their efforts have not only ensured that the hospital's A&E department continues to function smoothly, but they have also made a significant difference in the experience of patients and their families during this period of disruption.