Report on Governor visit to the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery

On Wednesday 29th March, governors Mick Goss and Fiona McLean arranged for governors to visit the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery (NHNN) at Queen Square. The governors were interested in learning how the NHNN was improving the patient experience for those suffering from neurological disease and how the advances in medical sciences have provide life changing treatments. Governors also had the opportunity to meet clinical and managerial staff and learn about the current challenges that the staff at Queen Square was facing.

Dr Turner explained how the NHNN is the leading centre for neurological research, and researchers at the hospital are working to develop new treatments for a variety of neurological conditions, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and stroke. He highlighted the many partnerships, in particular the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), and how charities, such as the National Brain Appeal, have help funded pioneering projects and clinical trials.

Cathy Beaton, head of nursing, answered the many questions relating to the specialist services that they provide to patients. Matrons Rebecca and Emma also shared their experience with working transitioning children to young adult services, and how they support families throughout the patient journey. Governors were pleased to hear
that the hospital had “strong retention” in nursing and about the training and career development opportunities in something as complex as neurosurgery.

Governors also got to hear about the innovative and transformative work that the stoke team has done to help patients get a faster diagnosis by having iPads in ambulances and remotely triaging patients at the scene with the input of stroke consultants via video conference. This helps patients get the correct diagnosis quickly without having to be transferred to specialist units at a later stage, helping to relieve pressures and contributing to lower waiting times.

Lead Governor Pam Peers thanked governors Mick Goss and Fiona McLean for organising and Dr Turner for facilitating the visit. By visiting hospitals and meeting clinical and administrative staff, governors can have a better understanding of the current challenges affecting each hospital within the wider UCLH Trust. Governors could see how proud all members of staff were to be working in a world-leading hospital. The governors would like to thank all the staff members who were present to during their visit and for answering their questions.