Elderly and frail patients are benefiting from an innovative new service at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in King's Lynn.

The acute frailty service has been launched to provide dedicated and high-quality services for older patients, who do not need to spend more than 72 hours in hospital.

A new 'frailty pathway' helps to identify and treat older patients with complex needs who arrive at A&E.

These patients are initially looked at by members of the rapid assessment team, supported by a geriatric specialist.

The new pathway ensures that patients are treated in the appropriate department, and a 12-bed unit has been established on Terrington ward, where elderly patients can receive the best treatment from consultants, nurses and physiotherapists.

The new service is also helping to reduce high-pressure points for the hospital.

Hospital chief executive Dorothy Hosein said: 'Every year, hundreds of older people arrive at the hospital with a wide range of conditions and this unit is aimed at giving them the best possible experience while receiving the highest standard of care.

'As a hospital which is striving for excellence, it is vital we tailor innovative services to meet the needs of the local population.'

Frailty has long been a priority for the hospital with the establishment of the Windsor ward, which provides care for five to seven days, while those with more complex needs are treated at West Newton.

What's been your experience of the new service? Email david.bale2@archant.co.uk