West Midlands Ambulance Service (WMAS) is preparing to transfer approximately 600 patients to the newly opened Midland Metropolitan University Hospital (MMUH) across three separate days over the coming month.
MMUH will open its doors to the public for the first time on Sunday, October 6, which will also be the day WMAS begins the patient transfers. On Sunday, around 300 patients will be moved from Sandwell Hospital to MMUH.
Following this, WMAS will transfer an additional 60 maternity patients from City Hospital on Wednesday, November 6. The final day of transfers, scheduled for Sunday, November 10, will see approximately 220 patients moved from City Hospital to the new site.
The transfers will be conducted using a fleet of 60 ambulances, consisting of both emergency vehicles and non-emergency patient transport service ambulances. WMAS has confirmed that all of these ambulances are in addition to the normal fleet used for daily 999 operations, ensuring that the routine emergency service will not be impacted.
James Williams, WMAS Head of Emergency Preparedness, Resilience and Response, said: “A lot of hard work has gone into this project over the last nine months to ensure we are fully prepared to transfer patients to the new hospital. We have worked closely with colleagues from Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals throughout the planning process and are confident the plans we have put in place will ensure patients are moved efficiently and safely.
Williams emphasised that WMAS staff are highly experienced in patient transfers and will ensure every patient receives the correct level of care, depending on the severity of their condition. He also extended his thanks to everyone involved in preparing for the transfers, as well as the staff who have agreed to work extra shifts to ensure the smooth operation of the three transfer days.
The new MMUH is a highly anticipated addition to healthcare in the region, aiming to provide modern and improved facilities for patients and staff. The upcoming transfers mark a significant milestone in the hospital’s opening, enabling the consolidation of medical services from across the region to provide better healthcare access and facilities for the public.
Authorities have urged the public to remain patient during the transfer days, as increased ambulance activity will be visible in the area.
