Caesarean Section Pathways Transformed to Improve Patient Experience and Care

Cardiff and Vale University Health Board (UHB) Midwifery, Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department is pleased to bring to fruition increased capacity for elective caesarean sections at University Hospital of Wales (UHW). The unit at UHW is the largest in Wales and our staff care for patients with some of the most complex maternal health needs regionally. The new elective caesarean section list capacity will allow patients to be divided into two streams, one for emergency care and one for planned care.

The new system has been developed in collaboration with staff, as well as using valuable patient feedback. It has been endorsed by a number of professional organisations including Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists and Royal College of Anaesthetics that this is a preferred model of care. Other NHS organisations have also successfully implemented similar models which have significantly improved the experience of patients.

As part of the previous model, planned care could often be disrupted by emergency care which needed to take priority. The new system will alleviate these pressures and delays. Elective capacity will be increased to twice a week with a view to increase this further to 4 days per week in the coming months. The phased approach will allow for a smooth transition into the new pathways.

What does this mean for patients in our care?

  • A more controlled environment which improves patient experience

  • Elective care less likely to be interrupted by emergency cases

  • Designated pathway for emergency care offering improved access

Suzanne Hardacre, Head of Midwifery, said: “Staff have worked incredibly hard to establish our two brand-new pathways which will transform patient care. We are really excited to be able to launch the new pathways and know that this will have a significant impact on the experience of the patients who come through our doors. Thank you to everyone involved in increasing our elective caesarean section capacity and establishing the pathways which will allow us to continue to provide high-quality, safe and effective care.”

The new model has been made possible via capital funding from Welsh Government.

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