ESTATE DEVELOPMENT
Major improvement work has begun at Birmingham Women’s Hospital which will dramatically change the façade, and improve the internal environment for patients, families, and staff. Above left: the ‘before’ photo, and, above right, the latter, rendered ‘after’ image.
Mica Moore
As a Business Support manager at Birmingham Women’s and Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, I work closely with the director of Estates to support the efficient management and strategic development of the Estates Department. My role involves assisting with key projects and initiatives that align with the department’s objectives, ensuring the smooth operation of Estates services. I coordinate with internal and external stakeholders to support business development, manage departmental processes, and contribute to high-level decision- making. Additionally, I help oversee strategic planning efforts, providing operational support to deliver long- term improvements that enhance the hospital’s infrastructure and services. Through my work, I play a pivotal role in facilitating the director’s vision for a well-managed, future-focused, Estates Department.
This video has been created to explain how this innovative technology works, and why it’s vital for reducing carbon emissions. The video, available on platforms like YouTube, helps inspire the next generation to understand and embrace sustainable practices, encouraging young people to play an active role in protecting the planet for the future. Birmingham Women’s and Children’s Hospitals are not only improving the quality of care they provide, but are also leading the way in sustainability within the healthcare sector. The decarbonisation project is a critical step towards reducing the hospitals’ environmental impact, with the introduction of energy-efficient ground source heat pumps and other eco-friendly measures significantly reducing their carbon footprint. These efforts are not just beneficial for the environment, but will also improve the comfort and wellbeing of patients, staff, and visitors. By making these advancements, the hospitals are setting a strong example of how healthcare institutions can embrace innovation and sustainability while still providing world- class care. As these projects progress, they will contribute to the broader goal of achieving Net Zero emissions, ensuring a healthier future for both the community and the planet.
Managing operational challenges in healthcare construction projects In healthcare construction, ensuring that projects are completed on time and within budget while minimising disruption to hospital operations is a delicate and complex task. As healthcare facilities expand or undergo renovations, the operational challenges extend far beyond the building site, affecting everything from patient care to staff workflow. Managing these challenges requires careful planning, clear communication, and a commitment to maintaining high standards of safety and care.
Noise impact is another significant challenge. Hospitals are places of healing, and noise can negatively affect both patient recovery and staff concentration. For critically ill patients, rest is essential, and excessive noise can delay recovery. Managing construction noise becomes a delicate balancing act. Additionally, dust suppression must be strictly controlled to ensure good air quality, especially in areas where vulnerable patients are being treated. To mitigate these risks, agreed methodologies, such as those signed off by the Director of Infection Prevention and Control, must be followed. This includes strategies for maintaining a clean and safe environment that doesn’t compromise patient care. In addition, construction work often reduces available spaces, making
34 Health Estate Journal April 2025
it difficult for staff, visitors, and patients, to park. This can disrupt patient care and cause frustration, especially during peak hours.
Effective communication Effective communication plays a central role in managing these complexities. Ensuring clear, consistent updates across all stakeholders, including contractors, hospital staff, and patients, is crucial to avoid last-minute issues that could disrupt operations. Another challenge lies in managing multiple contractors simultaneously. Coordinating the efforts of various teams requires careful planning and project interfaces. Each work package should be tendered for the best value, ensuring that timelines are met and costs controlled, without sacrificing quality. Ultimately, successful healthcare construction relies on precise management and communication to ensure that patient care is never compromised Healthcare construction projects require a multifaceted approach to successfully balance the needs of the construction process with the essential operations of a hospital. By addressing issues such as parking, noise, dust suppression, and contractor management, with effective planning and communication, hospitals can continue to provide high-quality care while navigating the complexities of construction. The key to overcoming these challenges lies in a collaborative effort, ensuring that all stakeholders work together to deliver the best outcomes for both patients and healthcare providers.
Conclusion The transformative projects underway at Birmingham Women’s and Children’s Hospitals mark a pivotal step towards enhancing patient care, improving facilities, and creating more welcoming, sustainable environments. By prioritising patient and family input, the hospitals are ensuring that every change made is meaningful and impactful, reducing anxiety and improving navigation for all who visit. With a strong emphasis on sustainability, these projects demonstrate a commitment to both the health of individuals and the planet, setting a precedent for environmentally conscious healthcare spaces. As these initiatives progress, they promise to reshape not only the physical spaces, but also the overall experience of care, leading to better outcomes and stronger community engagement. These developments reflect the hospitals’ ongoing dedication to providing world-class care and support, ensuring that every visitor feels valued and empowered throughout their healthcare journey.
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