There is a chance to see behind the scenes of your local hospital next month when Dorset County Hospital throws open its doors for its annual public open day.
The Teddy Bear Clinic at Dorset County Hospital’s annual open day always proves popular with young visitors.
This year’s tours will enable visitors to have unprecedented access to areas not usually open to the public, including pharmacy, the laboratories, operating theatres, sterile services and radiology.
As the hospital is celebrating its 175th birthday this year, there will be the chance to learn more about the hospital’s history, and to take part in the launch of the new interactive Treves Trail as part of the ‘175 Years of Dorset Healthcare’ project.
The hospital has also teamed up with colleagues in the local ambulance and fire services this year so there will be emergency vehicles on site.
As well as the usual nurse-led health checks, the dermatology team will be offering skin and mole checks this year and the diabetes team will be on hand offering health checks and advice.
The popular Teddy Bear Clinic will also be back so young visitors can bring along their favourite cuddly toy to have their heart listened to, or for them to receive a bandage.
There will be a range of displays in Damers Restaurant from departments around the Trust, including Research and Development, ICT, DCH Charity, PALS and Trust membership. The recruitment and volunteering teams will also be there to discuss opportunities to join the staff at the hospital.
The Friends of DCH will be showcasing their trolley service, and will have their shop open in North Wing, and Damers Restaurant will be offering a wide range of refreshments and home-made cakes.
There will be the chance to take part in our CPR challenge and to view the state of the art equipment in our clinical simulation suite, as well as to hear an update on the Trust’s strategic direction from Chief Executive Patricia Miller.
It’s going to be a busy afternoon, with plenty to see and do. On arrival please go along to Damers Restaurant to collect your programme and tour tickets, where friendly volunteers will be happy to help you make the most of your visit.
Chief Executive Patricia Miller said: “This is a chance for us to showcase the wonderful work that goes on at the hospital, often behind the scenes. Visitors can be sure of gaining a fascinating insight into the many different departments and services within the hospital.
“Staff have put a lot of work into organising this afternoon and I hope as many people as possible will make the most of this opportunity to find out more about how their local hospital operates.”
Tours and displays will run from the hospital’s Damers Restaurant which can be found in North Wing, Level 2. For more information please call 01305 253295, or email foundation@dchft.nhs.uk