A NEW fast-track initiative has been launched at the Alexandra Hospital for gynaecological patients with non life-threatening problems.

On arrival at A&E, the patient will be directed to a ward 14 suite.

The senior house officer will be called to assess them. After that, the course of treatment will be at the gynaecological team's discretion.

If a patient needs admission via their GP, they are sent directly to ward 14 if a bed is available.

Outside office hours, GP calls are directed to the nurse in charge on ward 14. The nurses and GP will decide whether the patient should be admitted. If so, A&E will be told and the senior house officer called.

If a patient becomes acutely ill, the A&E team will treat immediately.