Kent MP backs launch of innovative hospital patient education programme

Date: 08 June 2018

rehman spep

A unique initiative to improve care for patients undergoing surgery in Medway by involving them more closely in preparing for their procedure has been praised by local MP Rehman Chisthi.

Mr Chishti attended the recent launch of the Trust’s Surgical Patient Education Programme (SPEP) at Medway Maritime Hospital.

Developed earlier this year by the Trust’s Prehabilitation team (Dr Tarannum Rampal, Dr Manisha Shah and Mr Roberto Laza Cagigas), SPEP is a monthly multidisciplinary programme aimed at improving clinical outcomes through patient education.

The interactive seminars provide patients with key information ahead of their surgery, including physiotherapy and exercise techniques, nutrition advice and coping strategies for anxiety.

Trust Consultant Anaesthetist and Cardiopulmonary Exercise Service Lead Dr Tarannum Rampal said:

‘’We are extremely proud to have launched our innovative new Surgical Patient Education Programme, one of the first of its kind.

“Education can make a real difference to a patient’s experience and the overall outcomes of their procedures and I’m humbled by how positively our initiative has been received by patients and their families.

“By knowing what to expect and how to prepare mentally and physically for surgery and recovery, patients are more confident, calmer and more able to focus effectively on getting well.”

The SPEP is part of the department’s wider Prehabilitation Programme, which also includes exercise optimisation for high risk patients to help them ‘get fit’ for surgery.

Mr Chishti, MP for Gillingham and Rainham, said:

‘’It was great to visit the hospital and meet with the brilliant staff and inspirational patients to discuss this fantastic initiative. The programme empowers the people of Medway to take charge of their own wellbeing and provides them with the best advice for before and after an operation.

‘’It’s clear that a healthier population leads to better clinical outcomes, so I’m proud to give my support to this scheme and to the hospital, which provides expertise at every level.

Patients have also been very positive about the education project.

Laurie Lomas said: “I attended the programme before undergoing major abdominal surgery. The session was well-presented, interactive and multi-disciplinary, and was designed to prepare me physically and mentally for my operation.

‘’The information and advice given was relevant and helpful, and I chose to put into practice all the ideas that the professionals put forward. Without doubt, this contributed significantly to the operation and the post-operation recovery being so successful.’’

  • Summary:

    A unique initiative to improve care for patients undergoing surgery in Medway by involving them more closely in preparing for their procedure has been praised by local MP Rehman Chisthi.