Rowan House officially opens

On Wednesday staff and patients gathered together to officially open Rowan House, following the relocation of Plymouth Hospitals NHS Trust’s Dermatology and Pain Management services.

Trust Chairman, Richard Crompton, launched the event with the cutting of a ribbon and praised the teams for their successful re-establishment in their new home.

Staff and patients gather together for the opening of Rowan House “The building was previously used as a nursery and for learning disabilities”, explains Vickie Edwards, Clinical Admin Manager for Neurosurgery and Pain Management. “We wanted to do something to let everyone know that both dermatology and pain management are now based at Rowan House.”

Both patients and staff were invited to come along and meet the teams at their new location, to take part a treasure hunt, have moles checked and learn about skin care and pain management groups, as well as to try a range of treatments including tai chi, acupuncture and light therapy.

“We wanted to thank staff for all of their hard work”, adds Vickie. “It’s such a lovely environment up here – patients tell us they really like it.”

One patient in particular wanted to take the opportunity to thank the pain management staff for their support in managing his multiple healthcare needs.

“I’ve been coming to the pain management service for many years”, describes Derek Fry, who suffered life-changing injuries in an incident while working as a local fireman. “I’d just like to say that everyone, from the receptionists to the nurse holding my hand, are always really friendly and supportive.

“When I come here I feel valued. I know that my welfare is important and I’ve found the treatments, both invasive and non-invasive, have all been really helpful. Nothing is ever too much trouble.”

Typically patients visit the Pain Management service to seek support in managing chronic pain conditions, ranging from localised back and joint pain, to widespread problems such as Fibromyalgia.

The Dermatology team focus on any conditions that affect the skin, such as eczema, psoriasis and skin cancer.

“For the first time, dermatology and dermatological surgery are now under one roof”, adds Sara Farr, Nursing Sister in Dermatology. “This means that we will now be able to do most treatments here. We are aiming to act as a ‘one-stop-shop’, so that patients can be seen and treated on the day, which will make things much, much quicker.”

Further information can be found here: https://www.plymouthhospitals.nhs.uk/latest-news/relocation-of-pain-mana...