Visiting The Princess Royal Bristol Surgical Centre at Southmead Hospital, Bristol
- Matt Bishop MP

- 11 minutes ago
- 1 min read
Yesterday, I was very generously welcomed to The Princess Royal Bristol Surgical Centre at Southmead Hospital, Bristol, where I had the opportunity to observe Mr Damien Clark, Trauma and Orthopaedic Consultant.
I know how many people across the Forest of Dean rely on the incredible hard work of staff at Southmead Hospital, so I was particularly grateful for the opportunity to see first-hand the work taking place there, both day-to-day and as part of the recent developments at the Surgical Centre.
The Surgical Centre, which provides elective surgery, has significantly increased theatre capacity since opening almost 12 months ago. The progress made and the resulting increase in surgical output and positive impact on patients is genuinely impressive. There's lots to be learned from this model and, where possible, replicated.
During my visit, I met staff across a range of areas, including Medirooms, theatres, Rowan Inpatients Ward, X-ray, the café and reception. It was good to speak with staff across each area and hear directly about how these changes have affected not only patient care, but also their own experience of working.
Thank you to everyone who made the visit so insightful, including Nick Smith, Chief Operating Officer for Southmead Hospital Operating Unit, and Rosalie Hartley, Deputy Divisional Director of Operations for the Neurological and Musculoskeletal Sciences Division.
A particular thank you to Lara McLean, Clinical Coordinator for Orthopaedics, and Helen Jones, Ward Manager, for hosting my visit. I look forward to continuing to work with Mr Damien Clark and the wider team, learning from their meaningful and important work.





