Patients facing urological health concerns are set to experience faster, compassionate, seamless care following the opening of ‘The Thompson Suite’ at the Richmond Urology Unit in
Leigh Infirmary.
Designed around the needs of patients, the new state-of-the-art facility turns what was once a multi-appointment journey into a smoother experience focused on patient comfort and peace of mind.
The newly expanded suite – made possible from a £425k funding award to Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (WWL) from NHS England’s Community Diagnostics Programme - introduces a pioneering One-Stop Male Lower Urinary Tract Clinic. For patients, this means the relief of having assessments, diagnostic tests, and treatment decisions completed all in a single day, eliminating weeks of uncertainty and multiple hospital trips.
By converting former waiting area space into dedicated clinical rooms, the unit has also expanded its capacity for vital prostate biopsies and flexible cystoscopies - cutting wait times and delivering life-saving diagnostic answers much sooner.
The suite has been named in honour of Consultant Urologist Mr. Andy Thompson, whose dedication has transformed local urology care ahead of his retirement in December.
Mary Fleming, Chief Executive Officer at WWL, said: "Putting our patients first is at the heart of everything we do, and the opening of The Thompson Suite is another huge step forward for our urology services. These enhanced facilities mean faster answers, reduced waiting times, and a far more comfortable, streamlined journey for the people relying on our care.
"It is a privilege to dedicate this suite to Andy. He is a phenomenal leader and fierce advocate of urology services. His vision and unwavering commitment over the years have shaped this department into a centre of excellence, and this suite stands as a permanent tribute to the profound impact he has made on thousands of patients across our region."
Mr. Andy Thompson, Consultant Urologist, said: "I am honoured to have this new suite named after me, but delivering high-quality patient care has always been a complete team effort. Everything we have achieved at the Richmond Unit is down to the passion, hard work, and compassion of our entire department. I am immensely proud of our team and know that our patients will continue to be in the very best hands for years to come."
Louise Clarke, Richmond Urology Unit Leader who organised the naming of the new suite in Andy’s name, added: "Andy’s leadership, expertise, and genuine dedication to patient well-being have inspired every single one of us in the department. Naming it The Thompson Suite is a fitting tribute, and it serves as a daily reminder for our team to continue striving to be our absolute best for the patients we serve."
The transformation of the space directly addresses growing demand for specialised urology care across the Trust. By consolidating diagnostic steps into single-visit appointments, the Trust is actively improving patient convenience, reducing unnecessary travel, and enhancing overall clinical outcomes.
