The specialist centre, which is jointly run by Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals, The Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust and Barnsley Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, has been providing planned orthopaedic surgery for patients across South Yorkshire and North Nottinghamshire since opening in January 2024.
One of those patients was 76-year-old Janet Bell, who underwent the milestone operation after being offered a total knee replacement at short notice following a cancellation.
She said: “Everything moved very fast, but I had nothing to worry about – the team were amazing with me. They reassured me and talked me through everything.”
Having previously worked at Bassetlaw Hospital as an oncology nurse before retiring, Janet said being on the other side of care felt unusual.
She added: “I was kept informed and pain-free, and staff couldn’t do enough for me. When my knee had a flare up, one of my surgeons actually rang me to see how I was doing.”
Since her surgery, Janet has noticed a significant improvement in her mobility and a considerable reduction in arthritic pain.
Alongside completing more than 1,000 joint replacements, the centre has also achieved national Getting It Right First Time (GIRFT) Accreditation.
GIRFT is a national NHS improvement programme that recognises services delivering high standards of patient care, safety and clinical practice while helping to reduce variation and share best practice across the NHS.
Ellie Samways, Business Manager for MEOC, said: “These achievements are a huge reflection of the dedication, professionalism and teamwork shown by colleagues across MEOC every single day.
“Completing more than 1,000 joint replacement procedures so soon after opening demonstrates the positive impact the centre is already having for patients across South Yorkshire.
“Achieving GIRFT Accreditation recognises the high standards of care, safety and patient experience our teams consistently deliver, and I am incredibly proud of everyone who has contributed to MEOC’s success so far.”
Ahead of the accreditation assessment, colleagues prepared a detailed evidence portfolio demonstrating how the centre met the required standards.
The visiting team from NHS England praised the enthusiasm, professionalism and commitment shown by colleagues across the wards, theatres and administration teams.
Denise Smith, Chief Operating Officer at Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals, said: “MEOC has become an excellent example of what can be achieved through strong partnership working and a continued focus on delivering outstanding patient care.
“These milestones reflect the hard work and commitment of colleagues from across all three partner organisations who have worked together to create a service that is improving outcomes and experiences for orthopaedic patients across the areas we serve.”
Since opening in 2024, the centre has continued to expand its services and workforce, helping more patients across South Yorkshire and North Nottinghamshire receive planned orthopaedic surgery and supporting people to regain their mobility and quality of life.
