Investment in people and services strengthens the future of Dr Gray’s Hospital

Investment in staff, specialist training, recruitment and detailed induction of new recruits, facilities and equipment is helping to strengthen services at Dr Gray’s Hospital and support the hospital’s long-term future at the heart of healthcare in Moray.

The progress under way was highlighted during a visit to the hospital by Cabinet Secretary for Health and Care Angela Constance, accompanied by local MSP Laura Mitchell. They met frontline teams in the Emergency Department and maternity ward and heard directly about the work being taken forward to develop safe, sustainable and responsive services for local communities. They also visited the Scottish Ambulance Service station in Elgin to recognise the contribution of ambulance staff to care across the area.

A central part of the investment is the development of the workforce. Members of the maternity team at Dr Gray’s Hospital have been undertaking specialist advanced neonatal training at Aberdeen Maternity Hospital, with further training opportunities planned from September. More than £75,000 has been invested in additional training for our midwifery staff and recruitment is also progressing, including the appointment of two specialty doctors to support the new Special Care Unit.

This investment in people is being supported by more than £4.5 million pounds of investment in refurbishing facilities, the hospital building with plans for more new equipment and preparation for point-of-care testing. Teams in Aberdeen and Elgin are also working together to introduce and jointly coordinate a new one-stop maternity telephone line, making it easier for pregnant women to seek advice if they have an urgent concern about their health or the health of their baby.

Laura Skaife-Knight, Chief Executive of NHS Grampian, said:

“Our people are at the heart of Dr Gray’s Hospital. By investing in their skills, expanding the workforce and providing the facilities and equipment they need, we are strengthening services today while building firm foundations for the future.

“The specialist neonatal training being undertaken by members of our maternity team, together with further training and recruitment, demonstrates the commitment and expertise of colleagues in both Elgin and Aberdeen. Their close partnership is helping us to develop safe, sustainable maternity and neonatal services for Moray.

“We are grateful to the Scottish Government for its continuing support and investment in NHS Grampian services. This partnership is helping us to invest in the people, infrastructure and services needed to deliver high-quality care in Moray and across Grampian.”