9 Championing frailty research Two consultant geriatricians have been appointed to support the delivery of frailty research, marking an exciting development for BH’s clinical strategy priority of ‘ageing well’. Their work aims to establish an integrated research model, strengthening frailty research infrastructure and build collaborative partnerships across our research networks. They will focus on current National Institute of Health and Care Research (NIHR) priorities including dementia, long-term conditions and community care. Creating a newly expanded multidisciplinary team who care for older people and are able to carry out research is another key goal for colleagues. They hope to embed a culture where frailer and older patients are proactively included in clinical research across the hospital. BH treats one of the largest elderly populations in London and currently older adults (aged 65+) make up 14% of Barnet’s population. New discharge lounge set to double capacity A new discharge lounge is opening at BH this month, aiming to improve patient flow within the hospital and patient experience. The new space which doubles the previous offer is based near the front of the hospital. It has four trolleys, four recliner chairs and eight high-backed chairs for patients. The lounge becomes the first to facilitate patients on trolleys within a discharge area at BH. Staff will also be able to administer intravenous medications, insulin and oxygen therapy (for those on long term oxygen therapy) to patients waiting in the lounge. The refurbished area is also set to improve patient dignity as the new location has its own exit into the transport and parking bays. The dedicated space will enable patients to be moved from inpatient beds earlier in the day, improving capacity, as well as providing a safe and positive patient experience before leaving hospital.
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