Preston Royal Infirmary Hospital has been a cornerstone of healthcare services in Lancashire for decades. Known for its commitment to providing high-quality medical care, Preston Royal Infirmary serves as a vital facility for residents in Preston and surrounding communities. This article offers an in-depth overview of the hospital’s history, services, facilities, and patient information to help you understand why it remains a trusted healthcare provider in the region.
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History and Background of Preston Royal Infirmary Hospital
A Brief History
Preston Royal Infirmary has a rich history dating back to its establishment in the 19th century. Originally founded as a small local hospital, it expanded over the years to accommodate the growing healthcare needs of the community. The hospital has undergone numerous renovations and modernizations to keep pace with advances in medical technology and patient care standards.
Key Milestones
- Founded in 1870: The hospital initially served as a small dispensary and outpatient center.
- Early 20th Century Expansion: Addition of new wards, surgical units, and emergency facilities.
- Modernization in the 21st Century: Incorporation of state-of-the-art medical equipment and facilities.
- Integration into NHS: Became part of the National Health Service (NHS), ensuring broad access to healthcare services.
Commitment to Community
Throughout its history, Preston Royal Infirmary has maintained a strong focus on serving the local community, emphasizing accessible, compassionate, and comprehensive healthcare.
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Location and Accessibility
Address and Contact Information
- Address: Preston Royal Infirmary, Sharoe Green Lane, Preston PR2 9HT, Lancashire, UK
- Phone: +44 1772 524491
- Website: [www.prestonroyal.nhs.uk](http://www.prestonroyal.nhs.uk)
Transportation and Parking
- Public Transport: Easily accessible via Preston bus and train stations.
- Parking Facilities: Ample parking available for patients and visitors, with designated spaces for disabled parking.
- Accessibility Features: Ramps, lifts, and accessible toilets ensure ease of access for individuals with mobility challenges.
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Core Medical Services Offered at Preston Royal Infirmary
Preston Royal Infirmary provides a comprehensive range of medical services designed to meet diverse healthcare needs.
General Medical Services
- Emergency and urgent care
- Outpatient clinics
- General practitioner (GP) services
- Diagnostic imaging (X-ray, MRI, CT scans)
- Laboratory testing and pathology services
Surgical Services
- Elective and emergency surgeries
- Orthopedic surgery
- General surgery
- Urological procedures
- ENT (Ear, Nose, Throat) surgeries
Specialty Departments
- Cardiology
- Neurology
- Oncology and cancer care
- Gynecology and maternity services
- Pediatrics and neonatal care
- Respiratory medicine
Rehabilitation and Support Services
- Physiotherapy
- Occupational therapy
- Speech and language therapy
- Mental health support and counseling
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Patient-Centered Care and Modern Facilities
State-of-the-Art Infrastructure
Preston Royal Infirmary is equipped with modern facilities designed to enhance patient comfort and clinical efficiency:
- Advanced diagnostic imaging equipment
- Modern operating theatres with latest surgical technology
- Comfortable wards with private and shared rooms
- Dedicated outpatient and day-case units
Focus on Patient Experience
The hospital emphasizes compassionate care through:
- Patient-centered approaches
- Clear communication and transparency
- Multilingual support staff
- Patient feedback programs to improve services
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Specialized Units and Clinics
Emergency Department
- 24/7 emergency care
- Rapid response teams
- Trauma assessment and management
Maternity and Neonatal Units
- Antenatal clinics
- Labour and delivery suites
- Postnatal care and family support
- Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU)
Oncology and Cancer Services
- Chemotherapy and radiotherapy units
- Specialist cancer clinics
- Support groups and counseling
Rehabilitation Services
- Post-surgical recovery programs
- Chronic disease management
- Physiotherapy and occupational therapy
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Visiting Hours and Patient Information
Visiting Policies
To ensure patient safety and comfort, Preston Royal Infirmary has specific visiting hours:
- General visiting hours: 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm and 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
- Maternity and neonatal units: Restricted visiting hours; family members advised to check with staff
- Special circumstances: Visitors are encouraged to contact the hospital ahead of time
Patient Admission and Discharge
- Pre-admission assessments are available for scheduled procedures
- Discharge planning involves multidisciplinary teams to ensure smooth recovery
- Patients are provided with comprehensive aftercare instructions
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How to Access Healthcare Services at Preston Royal Infirmary
Making Appointments
- Book via the hospital’s online portal or by phone
- Referrals from GPs are often required for specialist services
- Urgent care can be accessed through the Emergency Department
Emergency Care
- Immediate assistance available 24/7
- For life-threatening emergencies, call 999
Patient Support and Assistance
- Language translation services
- Patient advocacy programs
- Support for vulnerable and disabled patients
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Community Engagement and Future Developments
Community Outreach Programs
Preston Royal Infirmary actively engages with the local community through:
- Health education sessions
- Vaccination drives
- Wellness and disease prevention initiatives
Future Plans
The hospital is committed to continuous improvement, with plans for:
- Incorporating cutting-edge technology such as AI diagnostics
- Expanding outpatient and day-case services
- Enhancing patient amenities and comfort
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Why Choose Preston Royal Infirmary?
- Experienced Medical Staff: Highly qualified doctors, nurses, and specialists
- Comprehensive Care: Wide range of services under one roof
- Patient-Focused Approach: Emphasis on compassionate and personalized care
- Modern Facilities: Equipped with the latest medical technology
- Community-Oriented: Deep roots and ongoing commitment to local health improvement
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Conclusion
Preston Royal Infirmary stands as a pillar of healthcare excellence in Lancashire. Its longstanding history, comprehensive medical services, modern facilities, and dedicated staff make it a preferred choice for residents seeking reliable medical care. Whether you need emergency services, specialist treatment, or routine outpatient care, Preston Royal Infirmary is committed to delivering the highest standards of health and wellbeing.
For more information, appointments, or emergency assistance, visit their official website or contact the hospital directly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What services does Preston Royal Infirmary offer?
Preston Royal Infirmary provides a wide range of services including emergency care, surgical procedures, outpatient clinics, diagnostics, and specialized treatments for various medical conditions.
Is Preston Royal Infirmary accepting new patients?
Yes, Preston Royal Infirmary accepts new patients for various outpatient services and specialist treatments. It's recommended to contact the hospital directly or visit their website for specific referral procedures.
How can I book an appointment at Preston Royal Infirmary?
Appointments can typically be booked through your GP referral, by calling the hospital's appointments desk, or via their online booking system if available. Check the hospital's official website for detailed instructions.
What COVID-19 safety measures are in place at Preston Royal Infirmary?
Preston Royal Infirmary follows strict COVID-19 safety protocols, including social distancing, mask mandates, regular sanitization, and visitor restrictions to ensure patient and staff safety.
Does Preston Royal Infirmary offer specialist clinics?
Yes, the hospital hosts various specialist clinics such as cardiology, orthopedics, dermatology, and more to provide comprehensive care for specific health conditions.
What are the visiting hours at Preston Royal Infirmary?
Visiting hours at Preston Royal Infirmary vary depending on the ward and patient condition. It's best to check with the hospital directly or visit their website for the most current visitation policies.
Are there parking facilities available at Preston Royal Infirmary?
Yes, Preston Royal Infirmary has designated parking facilities for visitors and patients, with accessible options available. Parking charges may apply, and there are specific areas for disabled visitors.
How can I provide feedback or raise concerns about Preston Royal Infirmary?
Patients and visitors can provide feedback or raise concerns through the hospital's patient liaison service, via their official website, or by contacting the hospital's administration directly to ensure issues are addressed promptly.