Hospital Departments

Hospitals comprise numerous departments, each staffed by a diverse array of healthcare professionals, often with some degree of overlap between departments.

For instance, physiotherapists and doctors may work across different departments, spanning from general medical wards to intensive or coronary care units.

Here is an overview of the primary departments commonly encountered in hospitals. Some of these units collaborate closely and may even merge into larger departments.

Each department typically operates under the supervision of consultants specializing in that field, supported by a team of junior medical staff with a shared interest in the specialty.

Accident and Emergency (A&E)

This department, also known as Casualty, is where individuals are typically taken in emergency situations or accidents. It operates 24/7 and is equipped to handle all types of emergencies, prioritizing patient care based on urgency.

Anaesthetics

Doctors in this department administer anesthesia for surgical procedures and manage pain relief services for various medical conditions, including acute and chronic pain, critical care, and obstetric procedures.

Breast Screening

This unit conducts screenings for breast cancer, primarily through mammogram examinations, either as routine checks or upon referral by healthcare providers.

Cardiology

Specializing in heart and circulatory conditions, this department offers both inpatient and outpatient care, providing diagnostic tests and treatments such as electrocardiograms, echocardiograms, and cardiac catheterization.

Chaplaincy

Chaplains provide spiritual and pastoral support to patients, families, and hospital staff, regardless of religious affiliation. Hospital chapels are often available for spiritual reflection and prayer.

Critical Care

Also known as intensive care, this unit caters to critically ill patients, providing specialized medical attention and monitoring by a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals.

Diagnostic Imaging

Formerly X-ray departments, these units offer a range of diagnostic imaging services, including X-rays, ultrasounds, CT scans, and MRI scans.

Discharge Lounge

Designed to streamline patient discharge processes, discharge lounges provide a comfortable environment for patients awaiting discharge, with access to various amenities and medical supervision.

Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT)

This department specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the ears, nose, throat, and related areas, including surgeries and treatments for various ENT disorders.

Elderly Services Department

Catering to the healthcare needs of older adults, this department addresses a wide range of age-related conditions and provides services such as home visits, day hospitals, and outpatient clinics.

Gastroenterology

Focused on gastrointestinal disorders, this department investigates and treats conditions affecting the digestive system, offering services such as endoscopy and nutritional support.

General Surgery

Covering a broad spectrum of surgical procedures, including day surgery, gastrointestinal surgeries, and breast surgeries, this department addresses various surgical needs.

Gynaecology

Specializing in female reproductive health, this department offers a range of services, including antenatal care, childbirth support, and treatment for gynaecological conditions.

Haematology

This department deals with blood-related disorders and malignancies, providing diagnostic and treatment services for various blood disorders.

Maternity Departments

Comprising antenatal care, childbirth support, and postnatal care services, maternity departments offer comprehensive care for expectant mothers and newborns.

Microbiology

Responsible for microbiological testing and analysis, this department plays a crucial role in diagnosing and managing infectious diseases.

Neonatal Unit

Dedicated to the care of newborn infants, neonatal units provide specialized medical care for premature or ill babies, often in close collaboration with maternity departments.

Nephrology

Focused on kidney-related conditions, this department offers assessment, treatment, and dialysis services for patients with kidney diseases.

Neurology

Specializing in disorders of the nervous system, neurology departments provide diagnostic and treatment services for conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, and nerves.

Nutrition and Dietetics

Dieticians and nutritionists in this department offer specialized dietary advice and support for patients with various medical conditions.

Obstetrics and Gynaecology Units

These units provide comprehensive care for women's health, including antenatal, prenatal, and postnatal care, as well as gynaecological treatments and procedures.

Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapists assist individuals in regaining physical and mental functioning, providing therapy and support to help patients participate fully in daily life activities.

Oncology

Specializing in cancer care, oncology departments offer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy for patients with cancerous tumors.

Ophthalmology

Focused on eye health, ophthalmology departments provide diagnostic and treatment services for various eye conditions and disorders.

Orthopaedics

Specializing in musculoskeletal conditions, orthopaedics departments offer diagnostic and treatment services for injuries and disorders affecting the bones, joints, and muscles.

Pain Management Clinics

These clinics provide specialized care for patients with chronic pain conditions, offering a range of treatment options to alleviate pain and improve quality of life.

Pharmacy

Run by pharmacists and pharmacy technicians, hospital pharmacies manage medication-related services, including dispensing, clinical pharmacy, and drug management.

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapists provide rehabilitation services to patients recovering from injuries or surgeries, offering therapeutic exercises and interventions to improve physical function and mobility.

Radiotherapy

This department administers radiotherapy treatments for cancer patients, using X-rays to target and destroy cancerous cells.

Renal Unit

Dedicated to kidney care, renal units offer dialysis treatments and support services for patients with kidney failure.

Rheumatology

Specializing in musculoskeletal disorders, rheumatology departments provide diagnostic and treatment services for conditions affecting the bones, joints, and connective tissues.

Sexual Health (Genitourinary Medicine)

This department offers confidential testing, treatment, and support services for sexually transmitted infections and other sexual health issues.

Urology

Focusing on conditions of the urinary tract and male reproductive system, urology departments provide diagnostic and treatment services for various urological disorders.

General Hospital Information