A NEW medical assessment unit for patients aged 65 and over has been opened at St Helens Hospital.

The Hammill Assessment Unit was opened by consultant geriatrician Dr M. A. Sadiq. It provides a link between primary and secondary care, helping to keep patients in their own home environment and preventing admission to hospital.

The unit is open five days a week (Monday to Friday) between 8.30am and 4.30pm, excluding Bank Holidays, and can accommodate 25 patients per day in two sessions (morning or afternoon) or for a full day.

Patients can be referred by their GPs, a consultant from a clinic or hospital or a therapist.

The unit offers medical assessment, diagnostic investigations, multidisciplinary assessment and rehabilitation, wound management, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, health promotion and advice.

Transport, snacks and beverages are available (free of charge) to patients attending the unit.

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