The Lister Hospital

🌸 Almona's journey: finding strength and joy amidst adversity 🌸

We are honoured to share the inspiring story of Almona, a 58-year-old entrepreneur from West Berkshire, and her courageous journey with breast cancer.

In 2022, Almona received a breast cancer diagnosis, which followed years of unexplained health concerns. When Almona received the news, she found the nurse who gave her diagnosis to be a bit callous. She then went to another specialist recommended by a friend, who she did not feel comfortable with, making the beginning of this journey even more challenging.

Almona finally found a team of experts who understood her needs at The Lister Hospital, including, her self-described “dream team” of Consultant Breast Surgeon Miss Nicola Roche, Plastic Surgeon Mr. Stuart James, and Cancer Specialist Nurse Lisa San-Martin.

The road to recovery has been challenging, however Almona now feels as though she has significantly improved her well-being. She now embraces mindfulness, exercise, and a balanced diet, and enjoys local yoga classes. Despite the challenges, Almona feels happier and more focused on her needs and wants than ever before. Her story is a testament to resilience, the power of a strong support system, and the importance of self-care.

If you have any concerns with your breasts, you can book an appointment to see Miss Nicola Roche or any of our other breast Surgeons at our new Chelsea Outpatients at 272 Kings Road. We are open Monday to Friday, 8AM to 8PM. Book your appointment today, by calling us on 020 3770 5870 or visit https://www.hcahealthcare.co.uk/facilities/the-lister-hospital/units-and-teams/chelsea-outpatient-centre to learn more.

The Lister Hospital have opened a new Chelsea Outpatients, on 272 Kings Road. This centre contains a range of expertise, in healthcare for women. Miss Nicola Roche, Consultant Breast Surgeon, shares her enthusiasm about the new facility:

"Our new Chelsea Outpatients at 272 King's Road encapsulates HCA Healthcare UK’s commitment to providing outstanding healthcare for women in southwest London. We provide same-day access to a comprehensive triple assessment service for those with concerns about their breast symptoms. We also offer breast screening with state-of-the-art mammography and breast ultrasound scans for those without symptoms.”

We're open Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 8 PM. Book your appointment today by calling us on 020 7349 3880 or visit our website to learn more. https://www.hcahealthcare.co.uk/facilities/the-lister-hospital/units-and-teams/chelsea-outpatient-centre

Come experience the extraordinary care and advanced services now available at our new Chelsea location!

We are delighted to say that HCA UK Laboratories have won three awards at the 2024 Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) Awards.

🏆 Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (ED&I)
🏆 Training & Development
🏆 Biomedical Science Champion

Commenting on our equality, diversity and inclusion approach, the IBMS credited HCA UK as a "a beacon for others to learn from.”

Congratulations to the HCA UK Labs team for the wins, and a huge thank you for playing such an active and engaged role in making HCA UK a great place to work and develop your career.

📸 HCA UK Labs Training Manager, Victoria Moyse and Head of Culture, Colleague Communications & Engagement, Mark Forrest, proudly accepting the awards from hosts, IBMS President, Joanna Andrew and Comedian, Author and Anaesthetist, Ed Patrick.

Explore our laboratories and scientists roles and join our award-winning team: https://ow.ly/7AcK50StxBG

We wanted to share Kriti’s inspirational journey from urgent knee reconstruction to a bride-to-be walking down the aisle in 2024 💍

Kriti has always embraced life with enthusiasm, whether it's her career in IT or planning her dream wedding. But her life took an unexpected turn when she injured her right knee during her birthday celebration in Varanasi, India.

In August 2023, Kriti tore her ACL. With the expert care of Mr. Simon Thompson, she faced the challenge head-on, and underwent surgery at The Lister Hospital. The smooth recovery was a pleasant surprise for Kriti, who was back on her feet and in the gym within two weeks.

But her journey didn’t end there. Kriti had to undergo two more surgeries on her left knee – all while preparing for her wedding in January 2024. Thankfully, Kriti is now pain-free and ready to start her new chapter.

Mr. Simon Thompson, a consultant orthopaedic surgeon, specialises in knee surgeries, including ACL reconstructions, at The Lister Hospital.

Kriti’s story is a testament to her strength and determination. Read more about her story here: https://www.hcahealthcare.co.uk/for-patients-and-visitors/patient-stories/kritis-singh-story

If you have any concerns with your knees, you can book an appointment to see Mr. Thompson at The Lister Hospital.

Today we are proud to open the doors to our £18m, 20,000 sq ft state-of-the-art outpatient centre in the heart of Canary Wharf.

HCA Healthcare UK Canary Wharf Outpatients builds on our existing capability in the City and aims to meet the growing demand for fast access to high-quality private healthcare in convenient locations.

It offers access to an expert team of care, offering:

✅ GP appointments
✅ Health screening
✅ Consultant expertise across the breadth of medical specialties, from cardiac to orthopaedics
✅ Specialist clinics including men’s and women’s health services
✅ Imaging and diagnostics - including x-ray, MRI, ultrasound, specialist breast screening, and blood tests

Services reflect an increased focus on preventative health and early detection in corporate health, which often translates to better outcomes and shorter treatment episodes for patients, and faster returns to the health and productivity of teams.

Operated by London Bridge Hospital, HCA UK Canary Wharf offers seamless referrals into our wider network of hospitals and specialist clinics if onward care is needed.

Throughout June, The Lister Hospital has shone in the vibrant colours of the Pride flag, symbolizing our support for the LGBTQ+ community. This display reflects our deep commitment to fostering an environment where everyone feels welcome, respected, and valued.

Diversity and inclusion are fundamental to providing extraordinary healthcare. Our commitment is evident in our policies and we strive to ensure compassionate and respectful care for all, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation in our daily interactions.

We proudly stand with the LGBTQ+ community during Pride Month and beyond. Lighting up our hospital in Pride colours reaffirms our commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion. Together, we celebrate progress and acknowledge the work ahead for true equality.

Happy Pride Month! 🏳️‍🌈

Meet Bode, who had successful surgery aged 14 to correct adolescent scoliosis and was back playing sports and riding a horse in just a few months.

Bode had no idea she was developing an excessive curvature in her spine until a school friend spotted it when they were changing for PE at age 12. Her mum, Cassie, booked an appointment with HCA UK Consultant Orthopaedic and Spine Surgeon Mr Jonathan Lucas, who told them her spinal curve was progressing very quickly. “He said that without surgery, it would start to really impact my chest and lung capacity in later life and may affect my ability to run around and play sports,” shares Bode.

Bode’s operation was scheduled at the renowned The Portland Hospital. The team successfully fitted Bode with one titanium and one cobalt chrome rod on either side of her spine held in place by 18 screws. “Comparing the before and after X-rays, they managed to make my spine perfectly straight which was incredible,” says Bode.

Her recovery was one of the fastest Mr Lucas has ever seen. Just two weeks after the surgery, Bode was back at school. She was playing volleyball again within a month, scuba diving in Santorini, and cantering a horse across a beach in the Dominican Republic within three months. “It was sooner than Mr Lucas advised, to be honest! But I felt so well that I just went for it.”

Despite studying for GCSEs, Bode now finds the time to reassure other young patients facing spinal surgery.

Find out more about how we treat scoliosis in adolescents: https://ow.ly/r1HP50SpPWN

Did you know there are over 24,000 people living with Myeloma in the UK, with 1 in 4 patients diagnosed under the age of 65. Today we're sharing Vanessa's story.

Vanessa was 38 years old when what started as persistent back pain, led her to specialists at HCA Healthcare UK, and resulted in an unexpected diagnosis of Myeloma.

Myeloma, also referred to as multiple myeloma is an incurable type of blood cancer. Over the years there have been many advancements in treatment and new breakthrough therapies continue to develop rapidly. This means that more people like Vanessa are living with Myeloma for longer than ever before.

Almost 14 years after her initial diagnosis Vanessa continues to receive her care at HCA Healthcare UK, under the expertise of Professor Kwee Yong. Last year she was one of the first patients in the UK to benefit from bispecific antibodies - a new type of immunotherapy.

Read Vanessa's story here: https://www.hcahealthcare.co.uk/for-patients-and-visitors/patient-stories/vanessas-story

❓Did you know it's reported that 1 in 3 people don't attend their cervical screening tests❓

Cervical screening helps detect high-risk HPV and early cell changes to prevent cervical cancer developing.

See below for three frequently asked questions about cervical screening.

Meet Kriti Singh, an IT Product Manager from London, who faced a daunting challenge just months before her wedding. After a dance injury at her 30th birthday party in Varanasi, she was diagnosed with a full ACL rupture in her 'good' knee. With a history of knee issues and three surgeries already behind her, Kriti was understandably hesitant.

Thanks to the expertise of Mr. Simon Thompson at The Lister Hospital, Kriti underwent a successful ACL reconstruction and two corrective surgeries on her left knee. Remarkably, her recovery was swift and smooth, allowing her to walk, exercise, and even return to work within weeks.

“The recovery process was completely different to my previous experiences,” says Kriti. “There was no knee brace, I could weight bear, and there was hardly any pain. I was on my feet and in the gym within two weeks and back to work in just six weeks. I'm completely pain free now, which is a lovely surprise!”

Read Kriti’s full story of resilience and expert care, resulting in her walking down the aisle in January 2024, pain-free!
https://ow.ly/l3OV50SjOPv

"We are helping people to get better, which makes the role really fulfilling. It is rewarding to be part of one of the many teams that ensures the smooth running of a hospital and a first-class patient experience. Our people [at HCA UK] are one of our biggest assets! We have a lot of people who take so much pride in their work and go above and beyond."

Today we are shining a spotlight on our colleague Roma Arya, Head of Housekeeping.

Roma leads a team of over 400 people, responsible for ensuring the highest standards in the environments across our network of care.

Thank you, Roma and to all of our vital housekeeping colleagues for your dedication and hard work!

Learn more about Roma's career journey here: https://hcacareers.co.uk/life-at-hca/from-hotels-to-healthcare-romas-story/

Roma's Story Meet Roma, Head of Housekeeping, and find out more about the role our housekeeping teams play in delivering an exceptional patient experience.

⚽️ As we gear up for Euro 2024, let us tell you about Hana’s inspirational story, from serious injury to becoming an England Lioness 🏆

Hana has been passionate about football since she was little. She dreamed of wearing the England kit and wouldn’t let anything stand in her way – not even torn muscles or knee surgery!

In 2018, Hana tore her ACL in her knee. Mr. Simon Thompson helped to get her back on the pitch, and she got to wear the England jersey she’d always dreamed of. But later she faced another hurdle – a painful ‘bucket handle tear’ in her knee. This type of tear involves the meniscus causing intense pain and immobility. But Hana didn’t give up. After a successful operation and rehab, Hana was back playing within six months. Her dedication and passion are truly inspiring.

Mr. Simon Thompson is a consultant in trauma and orthopaedic surgery, and specialises in knee surgery at The Lister Hospital, including ligament and meniscal injuries, complex reconstructions, and joint replacements.

Hana’s story is a testament to her resilience and love for the game. As we cheer on our teams at Euro 2024, we celebrate the incredible journeys of players like Hana. Read about it here: https://www.hcahealthcare.co.uk/for-patients-and-visitors/patient-stories/hanas-recovery-roaring-back-from-a-serious-knee-injury

If you have any concerns with your knees, you can book an appointment to see Mr. Thompson at The Lister Hospital.

For the entire month of June, our hospitals will be illuminated in the vibrant colours of the Pride flag, symbolising our unwavering support for the LGBTQ+ community.

We believe in fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome, respected, and valued. Our commitment to diversity and equality is reflected not only in our policies but also in our daily practices and interactions.

Happy Pride Month! 🏳️‍🌈

❔ Did you know that up to 50% of people in the UK with atrial fibrillation arrhythmias are undiagnosed, or that between six and eight million people are living with undiagnosed or uncontrolled high blood pressure?

Many heart conditions go undiagnosed which, if left unchecked, could cause serious health issues. That's why we have launched the HCA UK Heart Health Check, available across our 15 centres of cardiac care.

This comprehensive and personalised set of tests administered under the care of one of our leading cardiologists, empowers patients to gain a deeper understanding of their heart health, discuss any risks, and take proactive steps toward a healthier future.

As the leading independent provider of cardiac care, treating more patients than any other provider in the sector, we are ensuring that patients have fast access to a high quality and expert overview of their heart health.

The HCA UK Heart Health Check includes:
✅ 35 different lab tests, including specialty heart risk biomarkers
✅ An echocardiogram to assess the heart's structure and function
✅ An ECG to check for an abnormal rhythm (arrhythmia)
✅ A score to assess your future heart and stroke risk

All tests are performed in a single appointment. To find out more visit: https://www.hcahealthcare.co.uk/heart-health-check

Playing lots of sports while the weather is good? Let's talk ankle injury prevention 🦶

Why it matters

Frequent ankle rolls can lead to serious damage. Regular exercises serve as "prehabilitation," meaning if surgery is ever needed, your recovery will be quicker because your body is already prepared. By dedicating a few minutes each day to ankle health, you can prevent injuries and maintain an active lifestyle. Let's celebrate strong ankles and stay injury-free. Consultant trauma and orthopaedic surgeon Mr. Kumar Kunasingam, a specialist in minimally invasive foot, ankle, and sports surgery, shares his expert tips to help you prevent ankle injuries and stay active.

Strengthen and stretch

Regular ankle mobility exercises are essential. Start with simple rotations and up/down movements Incorporate steps and resistance bands into your routine to enhance your exercises. These tools can strengthen your ankle ligaments and improve stability.

Wobble board workouts

A wobble board is excellent for building ankle strength and balance. Begin with basic exercises like bodyweight squats. The board’s movement activates the tendons around your ankle, stabilizing it and preventing rolls.
Wobble boards are common in gyms, however, you can buy wobble boards at most sporting goods stores.

If you have any concerns with your feet or ankles, you can book an appointment to see Mr Kunasingam at The Lister Hospital or it’s Outpatients centre in Nine Elms. Https://www.hcahealthcare.co.uk/facilities/the-lister-hospital/

Today is and we’re proud of the vital role our biomedical scientists and laboratory colleagues play in providing exceptional patient care.

Thank you for all that you do!

Modern medical advancements in hip surgery at The Lister Hospital.

Meet Michael, a 73-year-old avid walker and charity worker who recently underwent life-changing surgery for his arthritis at The Lister Hospital.

Struggling with arthritis Michael's life changed when he found Professor Richard Field and his innovative surgery for hip replacement. His rapid recovery can be in part attributed to a personalized care plan, which allowed him to return home, as soon as he felt he was able to, which for Michael was on the same day as the surgery!

This allowed Michael to return to his everyday life as soon as possible, his dedication to a steady recovery has been truly inspiring, from initial mobility challenges to gradually returning to his beloved activities.

‘I had the crutches on for 6 weeks, which was until I saw Professor Field for a check-up. After 6 weeks I was on my feet and able to be moderate in activity.

‘The Lister Hospital has got a wonderful spirit of harmony. I felt it was wonderfully effective and everyone was so personable. That was from the consultant all the way through to the nurses, the porter staff, and the receptionists.’

We are thrilled to have been a part of Michael's journey towards a pain-free life. His story reminds us of the life-changing impact personalized care and advanced medical technology can have. Find out more about Michael’s story here: https://www.hcahealthcare.co.uk/for-patients-and-visitors/patient-stories/Michaels-MAKO-hip-surgery

Giving birth is one of life's most significant events, and at HCA UK's The Portland Hospital, the only wholly private hospital in the country dedicated to the care of women and children, we always aim to provide access to empowered choice.

This is a choice guided by clinical expertise from our leading obstetrics consultants and experienced, compassionate midwifery and nursing teams. It's a choice with the backup of neonatal intensive care and critical care should mum or baby need it, and it's a choice underpinned by the consistency of care.

Thanks to Shazia Malik for capturing our ethos so eloquently in her conversation with The Independent about the choice to have a caesarean.

Read the full article here: https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-families/c-section-doctor-caesarean-doctor-b2547901.html

Last month the British Society for Gynaecological Endoscopy (BSGE) published their latest statistics revealing the busiest centres for complex and major endometriosis surgery in the UK.

We are proud to be the UK's largest independent provider of specialist endometriosis care with 4 accredited endometriosis centres at London Bridge Hospital, The Princess Grace Hospital and The Lister Hospital.

For many women, getting a diagnosis of endometriosis can be a long process, and that's why we have ensured that across our network of health, our patients can access the nation's leading experts in the condition.

We want to give a huge thank you to our specialist teams for your expertise and the positive impact you are making in women’s lives.

You can find out more about our specialist endometriosis care here: https://www.hcahealthcare.co.uk/our-services/conditions/endometriosis

📸 Leading endometriosis consultant Shaheen Khazali at one of The Lister Hospital's outpatient clinics in the Battersea/Nine Elms area of London.

The Lister Hospital Blooms in Chelsea! 🌸

Chelsea is in bloom this week, and the team at The Lister Hospital is delighted to take part, with its own vibrant display. A few of the team found time to join in and have their picture snapped in front of the hospital’s blooms on Chelsea Bridge Road, just opposite the RHS show. Introducing our:

- Urgent Care Lead Nurse - Ana Coelho
- Orthopaedic Clinical Nurse Specialist - Vincenzo Prinzi
- Senior Dietician - Emily Reilly
- Lead Physiotherapist - Nair Pinto

Together, they provide a 360 degree view of health, and collaborate with our consultants to provide comprehensive orthopaedic care, from immediate injury response to post-surgery rehabilitation and lifestyle support. We are proud to highlight some of our team who make a difference every day at The Lister Hospital.

NEW One-Stop Breast Unit at Chelsea Outpatients on 272 King’s Road.

For women over 40 years old, looking to check in on their breast health, we are proud to offer personalised services, with access to the latest imaging technology including Hologic® 3D Mammography™ also known as Tomosynthesis.

Head of Imaging Services, Theresa Doherty had this to say about the new service: “The clinical expertise that we offer at 272 King’s Road, allows us to reassure our patients that they’re receiving the best possible experience. We offer same day access to a triple assessment service if you are worried about any symptoms, you might be experiencing. We have a fantastic team of highly skilled staff to support our patients through their healthcare journey with us. I couldn’t be prouder to be part of such an amazing team.”

The new centre for healthcare for women at 272 King’s Road draws together the expertise of leading specialists in breast care. With our multidisciplinary team, you can trust that we’ll support you every step of the way. The advanced form of mammography that we offer on-site provides 3D images which allows better visualisation of dense breasts with improved detection of abnormalities. If you are not experiencing any symptoms, you don’t require a GP referral to access this service, symptomatic patients should speak to a GP first though.

We’re open Monday to Friday, 8AM to 8PM. Book your appointment today, by calling us on 020 3770 5870 or visit https://www.hcahealthcare.co.uk/facilities/the-lister-hospital/units-and-teams/chelsea-outpatient-centre to learn more.

Meet Judith, a retired physiotherapist and artist, who endured knee pain since her forties. At 80, she decided to find a solution.

“For decades, I had patellofemoral pain. My GP recommended anti-inflammatories, so I just carried on. As a physiotherapist, I knew staying active was crucial. I designed gardens, took up acrylic painting, and enjoyed hill walking,” Judith shares.

After moving to Wales, her knee pain worsened. “Eight years ago, I saw an orthopaedic surgeon who gave me patella injections every six months. They were marvellous but temporary. The pandemic halted the injections, leaving me without treatment for four years.”

Back in London, Judith faced increased pain and opted for a knee replacement. Referred to Mr. Thompson at The Lister Hospital, she felt confident about the innovative patient-specific joint he recommended.

Judith recalls, “The Lister Hospital staff were friendly and professional. The surgery and spinal anaesthetic were seamless. After one night, I was discharged. My recovery has been incredible – walking without aids after a week and two miles daily after six weeks.”

Now, Judith enjoys a full range of movement and follows a physiotherapy program. “I do more than the average person, strengthening my knee, back, core, and other leg.”

What’s next for Judith? “Everything London has to offer, starting with the art galleries!”

Read Judith's full story here: https://www.hcahealthcare.co.uk/for-patients-and-visitors/patient-stories/decades-of-knee-pain-judiths-story

When it comes to your heart, you need the best treatment possible, as soon as possible.

We treat more cardiac patients than any other UK private healthcare provider, in state-of-the-art facilities, with dedicated experienced teams.

Learn more about our expert cardiac care here: https://www.hcahealthcare.co.uk/our-services/specialties/cardiac-care

📅 After decades of pain, Judith's knee replacement changed everything…

Meet Judith, a retired physiotherapist and avid artist who battled knee pain since her 40s. At 81, she finally found some relief through a knee replacement at The Lister Hospital.

For years, Judith suffered from chronic patellofemoral pain but stayed active by designing gardens and exploring painting. After moving to Wales, her pain worsened, and she sought medical advice. Biannual injections provided some relief, but the pandemic halted her treatments. After moving back to London and experiencing a significant loss, Judith decided it was time for a knee replacement.

Referred to Mr. Simon Thompson at The Lister Hospital, Judith opted for a patient-specific instrumented joint. The surgery was a success. Remarkably, she was walking without aids within a week, a mile a day by four weeks, and two miles by six weeks, thanks to a comprehensive rehab program.

Judith's story is a testament to the power of staying active and modern medical advancements. She's now looking forward to exploring London's art galleries and enjoying life pain-free.

Learn more about acute knee injury treatment here: https://www.hcahealthcare.co.uk/for-patients-and-visitors/patient-stories/decades-of-knee-pain-judiths-story or call 020 3733 5966 to book an appointment.

Husband and wife Paul and Christine share their melanoma diagnosis and care they received at The Christie Private Care, highlighting the importance of early detection and sun safety.

Paul noticed a small spot on his arm before a routine checkup, leading to a melanoma diagnosis. Christine's vigilance after Paul's diagnosis led to her own melanoma discovery. Both swiftly sought care at The Christie Private Care, where they received prompt, specialist treatment.

Their advice? Don't rely on the internet for diagnosis; see a doctor if you notice changes on your skin. Christine says “If you are worried about something on your skin do not rely on the internet to diagnose you. If you've got a lesion or a spot that's suddenly appeared, or it's changing, you must see a doctor."

Paul adds, "Times have changed and that's positive but there needs to be even more awareness of the damage that we’re doing to ourselves. Wear hats, cover up, use sunscreen. There are so many ways you can prevent that damage happening in the first place."

Read Paul and Christine’s full story here: https://www.hcahealthcare.co.uk/for-patients-and-visitors/patient-stories/an-unexpected-melanoma-diagnosis-for-husband-and-wife

This week, in recognition of both International Day of the Midwife and International Nurses Day, we've been celebrating our incredible nurses and midwives across HCA UK.

As part of our celebrations, we hosted a special event at the Royal Society of Medicine bringing together colleagues to reflect on our shared achievements, look to the road ahead and of course, say a huge 'thank you' for the care they provide to our patients.

“Nurses and midwives, show up; they come together as a team, and they support each other to achieve incredible things. I am proud to be a member of this community and I am constantly inspired by the meaningful contribution our nurses and midwives make, and by the expertise and the kindness and compassion they show every day.”

Carol Kefford OBE, Chief Nursing Executive

So here's to all of our incredible nurses and midwives - thank you for your dedication to exceptional patient care.

📸 A few images from our event at the Royal Society of Medicine!

We've cut the ribbon 🎀 officially opening our new Chelsea Outpatients at 272 King’s Road.

We're thrilled to expand our services in the heart of Chelsea. Building on our commitment to exceptional healthcare on the King’s Road, Chelsea Outpatients offers a range of healthcare for women, including expert consultations in gynaecology, breast, fertility, menopause, endometriosis, and physiotherapy. As well as state-of-the-art imaging facilities.

Suzy Canham CEO of The Lister Hospital, said: "Our new Chelsea Outpatients at 272 King’s Road encapsulates our commitment to providing outstanding healthcare in south west London. Bringing even more of the leading healthcare that we’re renowned for at The Lister Hospital in Chelsea, and further strengthening our services in healthcare for women in the local area.”

We’re open Monday to Friday, 8AM to 8PM. Call us at 020 3770 5870 or visit https://www.hcahealthcare.co.uk/facilities/the-lister-hospital/units-and-teams/chelsea-outpatient-centre to learn more.