Countess on BBC North West Tonight

“You are all doing the most incredible job in the most challenging times and have been for nearly one year. Where would we be without all of the dedicated NHS staff caring for our friends and loved ones.” “I received excellent care as a terminally ill patient coming in for an operation who was rather nervous the staff put me at ease. I would like to praise all of the staff not just medical for all of their hard work”

“The team on ward 54 are just outstanding. They say humour is the best medicine. - the team have a real talent for delivering exceptional, professional care in a joy filled manner.”

International recruitment boost

Twenty international nurses from African countries joined the Countess in September 2020, providing a welcome boost to wards and departments across the hospital ahead of the winter months. Many of them were arriving in the UK for the first time, but Chester as a city and the Countess community made a strong impression. Ivy Mbaika Mwiwa, who is looking to advance her career in cardiology, said: “Chester is a beautiful place and that has made it easier. Leaving home has been hard but my family know I have come here to develop and progress my career. They are so proud.”

Countess on BBC North West Tonight

In January 2021 the Trust was under intense pressure, with very high numbers of COVID-19 patients across the hospital. During this period, BBC North West Tonight were granted access to intensive care, a ward, the vaccination centre and the co-ordination centre to help viewers understand just how tough that time was for everyone at the Countess.

Medical Records hits one million

Medical Records scanned their one millionth record on 5 October 2020 – just under eight years after the first one was processed on 26 November 2012. Nichola Poole, Head of Records Management and Reception Services, said: “I am extremely proud to work with this team who always give 100%.”

National consultant appointments

Two consultants at the Countess have been recognised by being appointed into national roles. Mr Janardhan Rao, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, has been appointed the Chair of the Main Orthopaedic Exam for the three Royal Colleges and the Irish Surgical College. Mr Dale Vimalachandran, Consultant General and Colorectal Surgeon, has been appointed NIHR CRN National Specialty Lead for Cancer (Surgery). Congratulations to them both on these fantastic achievements.

Chester’s singing doctors

Three intensive care doctors from the Countess teamed up with colleagues from across the UK to launch a Christmas chart battle. Consultant intensivists Dr Kate Tizard, Dr Lyndsay Cheater and Dr Beccy Gale joined the virtual ICU Liberty Singers’ choir in recording an adapted version of The Police’s 1980s hit ‘Every breath you take’. The song missed out on the festive number one, but it was played in ICUs up and down the country on Christmas Day in a show of solidarity.