16 September 2019

Local MP visits Endoscopy Unit

Stephen Lloyd, MP for Eastbourne and Willingdon, visited the Endoscopy Unit at Eastbourne DGH to find out about the work of the team, who perform around 650 endoscopic procedures each month.

Stephen Lloyd with Endoscopy team

An endoscopy is a procedure where the inside of the body is examined using an instrument called an endoscope. An endoscope is a long, thin, flexible tube that has a light source and camera at one end. Images of the inside the body are relayed to a television screen. Diagnostic and therapeutic procedures are carried out by doctors or nurse endoscopists examining either the digestive or respiratory system.

Dr Phil Mayhead, Consultant Gastroenterologist said: “We welcomed the opportunity to explain to Stephen the work of our busy endoscopy team. The demand for endoscopic diagnostic and therapeutic procedures is ever growing. Screening has undoubtedly contributed to this growth but also more people are now aware to visit their doctor if they notice blood in their faeces.”

Stephen Lloyd MP said: “I first visited the Endoscopy Unit a year or so ago as a patient. I was tremendously impressed by the kindness and professionalism of the staff, so I promised myself I’d come back as their MP to thank the team for all that they do for the town. My visit was absolutely fascinating, to see the scale, 30 to 40 patients every day, and the size of the unit. A major investment by our beloved hospital six years ago, with support from the ever brilliant Friends of Eastbourne Hospital. Many thanks to you all for what you do, and it was good to receive my own clean bill of health as a patient last year. Much appreciated.”

The Endoscopy Units at Eastbourne DGH and Conquest Hospital have been awarded with a Joint Advisory Group (JAG) accreditation for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, by The Royal College of Physicians.

This accreditation is given to endoscopy units that are able to meet a stringent set of standards relating to high quality patient care, and demonstrating a safe, patient centred and efficient service. The JAG accreditation can assure patients that the units are committed to high quality standards in their clinical practice, and measure up to exacting national professional standards.