Royal Sussex hospital helipad becomes operational
Air ambulance crews can now bring critically ill and injured patients directly to the UK hospital’s Major Trauma Centre, cutting vital minutes from emergency transfers
A new rooftop helipad at the Royal Sussex County Hospital is now operational, allowing air ambulances to land directly at the hospital and speeding up emergency care for critically ill patients across Sussex in southwest England.
The helipad sits on top of the Thomas Kemp Tower, 388ft above sea level, and will allow patients to be transferred straight to specialist teams, significantly reducing transfer times for those with severe injuries or life-threatening conditions.
Dr Andy Heeps, Chief Executive at University Hospitals Sussex (UHSussex) NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Reaching this point has been both complex and challenging, but it is a wonderful example of multidisciplinary teams from across our Trust, truly coming together as one UHSussex, alongside our external partners and charities, to overcome the challenges associated with making the helipad safe and effective.
“The collaboration, problem solving, and dedication shown by everyone involved has been extraordinary, and today marks a proud moment for all of us as we continue our mission to provide excellent care, everywhere.”
As the region’s designated Major Trauma Centre, the hospital can now receive major trauma, cardiac, and stroke patients more quickly, strengthening the Sussex Major Trauma Network.
Dr Duncan Bootland, Executive Medical Director at Air Ambulance Charity Kent Surrey Sussex (KSS), said: “The opening of the new helipad at the Royal Sussex County Hospital represents an important step forward in helping KSS deliver the fastest possible care to the most critically ill and injured patients.
“In emergency medicine, every second counts, and being able to bring patients directly into the hospital will make a meaningful difference to their chances of survival and recovery.”
The project was supported by a £1.9 million donation from the HELP Appeal, which also funded specialist firefighting equipment on the helipad.
It was also announced recently that Gwynedd hospital is to get Wales’ first dual helipads.
Chloe Fox
Chloe Fox is an Senior Editorial Assistant for Voyageur Group, joining in 2024. She writes for AirMed&Rescue and ITIJ, covering a range of topics including international travel and health insurance, medical assistance provision, and air medical transportation. Chloe holds a BA (Hons) in English and an MA in English Literature from the University of Bristol.