Unwrapped for Christmas: New Medical Day Unit to open at Cheltenham General Hospital
This Christmas Eve marks a fresh chapter for Cheltenham General Hospital’s Medical Day Unit (MDU), as it opens in its new home on Oakley Ward, Centre Block, after relocating from its previous site near A&E.
The MDU provides vital intravenous (IV) therapies for conditions such as multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, osteoporosis, iron deficiency anaemia, asthma and renal issues. Many patients attend regularly for IV infusions, while others complete their course of treatment after being discharged from hospital.
Matron for Diabetes, Dermatology, Rheumatology, Endocrine and Medical Day Unit Vinod Mani leads the unit and has overseen the move, which follows over two years of meticulous planning and several setbacks. Vinod explains:
“The unit is a lifeline for so many patients who rely on these treatments. I was determined to secure the right space for the team and their patients, despite the challenges we faced along the way."
Vinod Mani, Matron for Diabetes, Dermatology, Rheumatology, Endocrine and Medical Day Unit
Vinod adds:
“The new MDU not only provides a modern, welcoming environment but also enhances patient safety. The bright, open space allows us to accommodate 14 recliner chairs - two more than before - while ensuring staff can observe all patients easily. This greater capacity helps us treat more people and reduce costly hospital admissions, freeing up acute care beds.”
The new location has been completely refurbished to meet modern healthcare standards. While it is housed in one of the hospital’s oldest areas, the wide, traditional Nightingale-style layout offers advantages over the previous cramped unit. Patients had raised concerns about privacy and dignity in the former location and these have been addressed in the design of the new space.
Vinod continues:
“The light, space and comfort of our new MDU will make a huge difference to both patients and staff. The environment is now one we can be proud of and we look forward to welcoming our first patients on Christmas Eve.”
This move marks another milestone in Cheltenham General Hospital’s ongoing efforts to improve care quality and patient experience, offering an environment where individuals can feel supported and respected as they undergo treatment.