Updating our Outpatients Department

An ambitious project has helped make the University College Hospital Outpatients Department much more pleasant and easy to navigate.

The project, led by Cliona Curran, matron for Medical Specialties and Outpatients, came about when things started to open up following the restrictions of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Cliona said: “We wanted to improve the space for patients and staff, for example we wanted to create a staff room with storage facilities.”

The project also focused on patient experience. The walls of each clinic were painted in different colours, distinguishing the previously very similar-looking areas so that patients can find their way around more easily. New signage was installed to further improve wayfinding.

The department also benefitted from the installation of a formal reception desk, which helps to ensure patients are directed to the right place efficiently, meaning there are no longer lengthy queues, as had often been the case previously.

Cliona said: “We see 600-800 patients a day, so it’s important the department is easy to navigate and a pleasant place for patients and staff.

“We wanted to make it easier for people to find their way around using colour coding and signage, make better use of space and create a warmer, less clinical feel with art on the walls. It’s been a huge project, but we’re getting lots of good comments, so we’re really pleased at how it’s turned out.”

Cliona also worked with UCLH Charity and the fundraising team, to improve the space by commissioning artwork by Laura Gee, who featured in the UCLH Charity Gardens exhibition. These eye-catching pieces can be seen dotted around the department for all to enjoy.