The Histopathology Services of North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust is based at the Cumberland Infirmary site. The laboratory processes approximately 21,997 histology requests per annum and 1,254 non-gynaecological cytology requests, including some FNA work.
The laboratory is UKAS ISO 15189 accredited and HTA licenced to conduct post mortems and store bodies at the Cumberland Infirmary, and a satellite licence as a body store at West Cumberland Hospital.
There are currently 5.8 WTE Consultant Histopathologists in post at Carlisle, with an establishment for 7.0 WTE posts. There is also a Specialty Doctor post. We have a very friendly and happy working environment, with a strong team approach to making the service successful. The histopathology service is well regarded across the Trust despite working below full consultant capacity for several years. We provide support to each consultant individually to help manage their workload. Excess work is outsourced.
Histology
Reporting of diagnostic histology cases
In 2023 a total of 21,997 histology requests were received. The normal full range of diagnostic material is processed. Neuropathology is not performed. Histology duties are undertaken on a daily rota.
Examples of annual workload 2023 for some specimen types (not exhaustive):
1. Endoscopic biopsies: 5,277
2. Colectomies: 145
3. Skin: 6,657
4. Breast Cores: 1,097
5. Breast resections: 327
6. Cervical biopsies and Cervical LLetz: 1,350
7. Liver biopsies: 48
8. Renal biopsies: 66
Fully automated immunohistochemistry is provided with a comprehensive range of routine antibodies.
Rapid biopsy processing can be undertaken using a rapid hybrid tissue processor.
The laboratory is served by the Telepath computer system with links across the Trust and NHS networks. The Trust is currently working collaboratively with other laboratories in the North-East to replace our current LIMS with Cerner LIMS, which is anticipated to occur during 2023.
85% of requests are from hospital cases (Cumberland Infirmary and West Cumberland Hospital), 15% from General Practitioners.
Non-Gynaecological Cytology
In 2023 a total of 1,254 non-gynae cytology requests were received. Specimens cover the normal range expected. 95% of requests are generated from hospital wards and clinics. FNAs are taken by surgeons/radiologists. Non-gynaecological cytology is distributed by daily rota.
At NCIC, we have an ambition to deliver outstanding healthcare services to the population of North Cumbria. The Trust is committed to creating a centre of excellence in providing rural and remote healthcare and provides a wide range of community and acute services throughout our county.
Our 5 key principles demonstrate our belief in the delivery of ‘safe, high quality care every time':
1. Being a clinically led organisation
2. Quality and safety at the heart of our Trust
3. A positive patient experience every time
4. A great place to work
5. Managing our money well
As an organisation we are serious about supporting a diverse workforce that reflects our local community and are very much focused on being an inclusive and compassionate place to work.
Across the North East and North Cumbria we are working together to deliver our ambition to be the greenest region in England by 2030. All staff are expected to support sustainability.
Please review the attached job description for further information and the main responsibilities for this role.
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