Optimising Record Storage at Blackpool Victoria Hospital
Blackpool Victoria Hospital, also known as The Vic, is the main hospital for Blackpool and the Fylde Coast in Lancashire. The hospital offers a wide range of services, including Accident and Emergency, a cardiac unit, intensive care, and specialist services such as the Lancashire Cardiac Centre and the National Artificial Eye Service. With a patient population of 1.6 million and over 34,000 outpatient appointments each month, efficient records management is crucial for delivering high-quality care.
In 2022, the hospital began implementing an Electronic Document and Records Management System (EDRMS) as part of its broader digitisation initiative to scan legacy patient records. This transformation required optimised physical storage to accommodate both existing records and those being digitised.
Challenge: Overcoming Record Storage Limitations
The hospital faced space constraints as an old theatre area had been converted into a record storage space. Despite optimising the area with 2,500 linear metres of racking, the sheer volume of paper records quickly outgrew the available storage capacity. A new, purpose-built storage area was needed to support the hospital’s growing digitisation efforts.
Solution: Mobile Shelving to Maximise Storage Capacity
Whittan’s Link51 division provided a custom storage solution that combined static and mobile shelving systems. The mobile shelving allowed the hospital to increase storage capacity by 36%, while also enhancing safety and accessibility. The new space was designed to support the scanning of patient records, improving workflow from physical storage to digitisation.
Impact: Improved Efficiency and Record Access
The new storage system transformed the hospital's records management process, enabling faster access to patient records. The dedicated racking area for scanning ensured a smooth transition from physical to digital records, reducing wait times and improving overall efficiency. The hospital’s records management became more organised, ensuring the safety of documents during the digitisation process.
Why Choose Whittan?
Whittan, the UK's largest manufacturer of shelving and storage solutions, provides flexible and future-proof systems for healthcare institutions. Whittan’s Link51 brand specialises in efficient storage solutions that help healthcare organisations optimise space and streamline workflows, supporting their transition to digital records management.