Minister sees some of the best of Derriford Hospital

Dr Daniel Poulter MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Health, visited Derriford Hospital today, to meet with staff and see the services provided.

Dr Poulter has worked as an NHS hospital doctor specialising primarily in obstetrics, gynaecology and women’s health. He continues to practice medicine as an NHS hospital doctor on a part-time basis as well as serving as an MP and Minister.

He visited Derriford this morning, starting with the Emergency Department, where he met with Matron Tim Parham and Consultant Matt May.

Dr Poulter spent time in the Intensive Care Unit learning about Derriford’s role as a Major Trauma Centre before being taken around the maternity unit by Head of Midwifery Sue Stock.

The Minister also wanted to spend time with military staff who work as part of the bigger team at the hospital. He met with Tim Jones, Commanding Officer for the Ministry of Defence Hospital Unit and Surgeon Commodore Peter Buxton, Commander of the Defence Medical Group based up in the medical headquarters in Lichfield.

Dr Poulter said, as he left: “I really enjoyed seeing Derriford’s Emergency Department and how hard the team there work to support elderly and vulnerable patients in particular. It is clear that as a Major Trauma Centre, the dedication and knowledge of your staff add to the excellent facilities to make an even better hospital. I have really enjoyed coming and visiting your labour ward and ante-natal clinic too.”

Ann James, Chief Executive, said: “It was a great opportunity for Dr Poulter to meet some of our staff and witness for himself the care and dedication they offer patients. He talked with real interest to staff and we really enjoyed having him with us.”