New Breast Care Unit officially opens at County Hospital

University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust (UHNM) has officially opened its new £15.3 million Breast Care Unit at County Hospital, Stafford.
 
The purpose-built facility brings breast imaging, diagnostics, outpatient clinics and support services together under one roof whilst improving privacy, comfort and accessibility.
 
The unit was formally opened yesterday (Monday 5 October) by former patients and community representatives who were involved in its design, helping to make sure the Unit is accessible, welcoming and easy to navigate for all patients.
 
The Unit, which welcomed its first patients in April, includes four consultation rooms, an enhanced treatment room, three counselling rooms, two mammography rooms and two ultrasound rooms. New diagnostic technology means more tests can now be carried out at County Hospital reducing the need for some patients to travel to the Royal Stoke University Hospital.
 
Mr Sekhar Marla, consultant oncoplastic breast surgeon, said: “This new Breast Care Unit is the result of many years of planning and teamwork across UHNM. From the very beginning clinical teams and our supporters and partners were able to help shape the design of the Unit making sure it meets the needs of both patients and staff.
 
“We had outgrown our previous unit and developments in technology meant we needed facilities that could support the way breast care is delivered today. By bringing consultations, imaging, diagnostics and treatment services together in one modern, purpose-built environment we can provide a better experience for patients while supporting our teams to deliver the highest standards of care.
 
“We know that coming to a breast clinic can be an anxious experience for many people so providing a calm and welcoming environment makes a real difference. The new Unit gives patients access to state-of-the-art imaging technology closer to home and will support breast services for many years to come.”
 
One of the patients to benefit from the breast care service at UHNM is Celia Jarrett. The 83-year-old, who has volunteered at UHNM for more than 10 years with her dog Maisy, was unexpectedly diagnosed with breast and lung cancer in April 2024.
 
Celia said: “The treatment I received from the staff has been absolutely second to none. I saw my consultant, had my scan and received my results just 90 minutes later. Having everything in one place is amazing and makes such a difference for patients.”
 
Local patient representatives and community support groups were involved throughout the design process, helping to shape the unit and ensure it is accessible, welcoming and easy to navigate for everyone who uses it.
 
Louise Connop, senior engagement manager at Thomas Pocklington Trust, said: “In comparison to the old unit, it's absolutely amazing. It's a lot lighter and brighter, easier to navigate and far more welcoming. The space is much better and makes it easier not only for blind and partially sighted people, but for all patients to find their way around.”
 
The Breast Care Unit is the latest investment at County Hospital after the Staffordshire Treatment Suite, North Midlands Hand Centre and the £9.8 million Day Case Unit.
 
Helen Ashley, Acting Chief Executive at UHNM, said: “This fantastic new facility is a significant investment in breast care at County Hospital and will make a real difference to patients by bringing more services together in one modern environment closer to home.”