Woodthorpe Hospital, part of Ramsay Health Care UK, was delighted to welcome Michael Payne, Labour Member of Parliament for Gedling, for a tour of the hospital and the opportunity to meet with staff across a number of departments.
Mr Payne’s visit focused on gaining a deeper understanding of the role independent sector hospitals play in supporting both NHS and privately funded patients, particularly in light of ongoing pressures within the healthcare system. During his time at the hospital, he spoke with clinical and support staff, viewed several areas of the facility including outpatient clinics and surgical theatres, and learned more about how Woodthorpe continues to deliver high-quality, patient-centred care to the Gedling community and beyond.
Woodthorpe Hospital is part of Ramsay Health Care UK, one of the leading independent healthcare providers in England. The hospital opened in 1877 and has built an excellent reputation for delivering first class healthcare for patients. It brings together a diverse group of clinical specialists who provide the highest quality procedures, treatments and patient experience for private, insured and NHS patients. It specialises in orthopaedics, general surgery, ophthalmology, cosmetic surgery, ENT and diagnostics.
The MP also discussed challenges currently facing the healthcare sector, including workforce pressures and growing patient demand, and heard directly from staff about their day-to-day work, achievements, and the importance of a joined-up approach between the NHS and independent providers.
Following the visit, Paul Scott, the Hospital Director at Woodthorpe Hospital, said:
“It was a pleasure to welcome Michael Payne MP to Woodthorpe Hospital. His visit was a great opportunity for us to showcase the commitment of our teams and the work being done to support patients across Gedling and Nottinghamshire. Michael showed a clear understanding of the healthcare landscape and a strong appreciation for the value of partnership between the NHS and the independent sector.
Michael demonstrated a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities in healthcare and was particularly complimentary of our charitable outreach—especially our recent partnership with WorkFit, the Down’s Syndrome Association’s employment programme, which promotes inclusive hiring and tailored workplace support”
Ramsay Health Care UK continues to invest in its hospitals and services to support patient access and deliver excellent clinical outcomes. As part of its commitment to wider social responsibility, Ramsay UK also works closely with the Purpose Coalition and has published two Social Impact Reports, the most recent in January 2025, outlining its work in tackling health inequalities and supporting communities across the UK.