July 2, 2013 3.40 pm This story is over 127 months old

New service for mental health patients at Lincoln hospital

Checked within an hour: Mental health patients at Lincoln County Hospital should be able to access the relevant treatment much quicker thanks to a new streamlining service.

Mental health patients at Lincoln County Hospital should be able to access the relevant treatment much quicker thanks to a new streamlining service introduced on July 1.

Under the new Hospital Intensive Psychiatric Service (HIPS) clinicians are able to assess patients within one hour of arriving at A&E, or within 24 hours if on a ward.

Access to the relevant mental health service was often slow, but working with doctors and nurses, the specialist HIPS team ensures mental health, alcohol or drug problems are assessed and treated much earlier.

Dr Julie Hall, director of Nursing, Lincolnshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, said: “This is a great example of how two NHS trusts can work together to improve patient experience and utilise NHS resources more effectively.

“Patients will be able to get more timely response for their mental health needs, ensuring the best outcome for individuals, especially so for older people with dementia,” she added.

ALan Pattison, HIPS Team Leader, said: “It’s a pleasure to lead a team of clinicians whose sole focus will be on improving patient outcomes.

“It will also be exciting to be working in partnership with colleagues at the United Lincolnshire Hospitals Trust to achieve this.”