What is SDEC?
SDEC is a Same Day Emergency Care department. We can provide urgent access to assessments, treatment and referrals.
You cannot self-refer to SDEC. We only receive referrals from other healthcare providers. These can include:
- GP practices
- NHS 111
- Cumbria Health (previously CHoC)
- Minor Injury Units
- Inpatient Wards or Outpatient Clinics
- NWAS (paramedic crews)
- Emergency Departments
Different teams work within SDEC. There are two main teams: Medical and Surgical. We sometimes might have input from other specialist teams, too.
Location
You will find us at West Cumberland Hospital. We are directly opposite the Emergency Department. There is a 20 minute drop off outside the SDEC unit.
What can I expect?
Each patient’s journey will be different. Your journey could involve the following:
Why was I referred to SDEC?
You have been referred to SDEC because the person who assessed you feels you need specialist input. This is usually because there are limits on what urgent care the referring teams can provide. Please ask if you need any clarification about your referral.
How long will I be in SDEC?
This will vary depending on your individual medical need. Please be aware, the time you’ve been asked to come in is not an appointment start time. It can take time to safely organise and implement your care. You may need to be in the department for most of the day.
If you have any commitments or caring responsibilities, please make alternative arrangements for these. We know the long waits can be frustrating. Please be patient with our staff.
What do I need to bring?
Please bring any routine medication with you, if you are able to.
Facilities
There are two patient toilets within the department.
Food and drinks are available to buy from the Canteen and WHSmith. However, we will provide light refreshments and there is a water machine available.
Compliments and Concerns
Your feedback is extremely important to us. We use it to share compliments and review how we can learn from you to do things better.
Please fill in a short survey by scanning the QR code below or ask and we can give you a paper copy:
Please choose the service you have accessed from the drop down list. If you are not sure, you can ask one of the team:
SDEC Medical (WCH)
or
SDEC Surgical (WCH)
If you have any concerns about your care or treatment, please ask to speak to the nurse in charge.
SDEC Contact details
Telephone: 01946 523207
Opening times:
Monday to Friday: 8:00am – 8:00pm
Confidentiality
‘The Trust’s vision is to keep your information safe in our hands.’ We promise to use your information fairly and legally, and in-line with local and national policies. You have a right to understand how your information is used and you can request a copy of the information we hold about you at any time.
For further information on confidentiality contact the Information Governance Team:
Information.Governance@ncic.nhs.uk | 01228 603961
Feedback
We appreciate and encourage feedback, which helps us to improve our services. If you have any comments, compliments or concerns to make about your care, please contact the Patient, Advice & Liaison Service:
pals@ncic.nhs.uk | 01228 814008 or 01946 523818
If you would like to raise a complaint regarding your care, please contact the Complaints Department:
complaints@ncic.nhs.uk | 01228 936302