Patients awaiting discharge from Noble’s Hospital are now being moved to a lounge near the main entrance before they leave.

Health bosses say the initiative is designed to free up beds on the wards.

It is being staffed by a registered nurse and healthcare assistants, who will chech that patients have everything they need from the hospital before they head home.

A television set, magazines, refreshments and light meals will be available.

The initiative is designed to help prevent bottlenecks elsewhere in the hospital, when the admission of acutely ill patients is held up because beds are still occupied by those awaiting discharge.

Director of hospitals Mike Quinn said: ’This initiative offers benefits all round. Experience in the UK demonstrates that a proactive system of discharge is central to reducing waits in emergency departments and improving patient flow.’

He added: ’In future, medical patients who arrive at A&E or are referred to Noble’s by their GP can be moved from the acute admissions unit onto medical wards with minimal delay.

’At the same time, those ready to go home who no longer need a bed, can transfer to the discharge lounge, which will be a convenient pick-up point for patients’ families and our patient transfer services.’

Patient flow manager Amanda Mills said: ’We aim to provide a safe, calming environment for patients who are fit for discharge from acute hospital care, away from the hustle and bustle of a busy ward. Staff will offer a friendly welcome, company and reassurance for patients.

She added: ’Improving patient flow through the hospital is about having patients in the right place at the right time, and ensuring they feel safe and cared for, whether at the start of their journey through the hospital or as they leave us to go home.’