EAST LANCASHIRE HOSPITALS NHS TRUST TRUST BOARD ...

WINTER PLAN 2012/13
Introduction
The plan provides an overview of the key East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust (ELHT)
policies, procedures and Divisional Operations Plans necessary to ensure that winter
demand and capacity pressures are managed effectively.
The aim of the plan is to ensure that all staff are aware of what information and guidance is
available to support them in coping with periods of high demand, enabling a co-ordinated
approach to maintaining patient flow and positive clinical outcomes.
Methodology
The document has been contributed to by all the Divisions. The methodology and format
follow best practice guidance from NHS North and the document complies with the
Assurance Checklist attached an appendix in the plan. It also includes the learning from last
winter following the internal review led by the Chief Executive. The document has been
shared with stakeholders and will form part of an overall health economy plan.
Demand and Capacity
The plan is based on a forecasted increase in activity of 5% on 2011/12 and provides for an
additional 57 beds:
B6
– extra capacity of 5 beds.
C3
- extra capacity of 5 beds.
D5 (CDS) – 13 beds (cohort ward.)
D1
- additional 10 beds.
Ward 23 (BGH) – 24 beds.
Total 57
The modelling does identify that on occasions 57 beds will be insufficient. At such times,
additional non-elective capacity will be made available by flexing elective capacity where
possible, without impacting on 18 weeks and cancer targets and stepping appropriate
patients down into additional nursing home beds that have been purchased by
commissioners.
Changes based on the learning from 2011/12.
1. Recruitment to key roles commenced much earlier.
2. Procurement of medical equipment to support additional capacity commenced much
earlier.
Page 4 of 57
Retain 30 years
Destroy in conjunction with National Archive Instructions
V:\Management Meeting Records\TRUST BOARD\2012\MEETING PREP\Part 1\(9) Winter Plan 12 13.docx