Patients are now being seen in two specialist mobile endoscopy units installed opposite the hospital’s main entrance, marking a major step forward in the trust’s recovery efforts.
The units will remain in use for at least two years while repairs continue in the West Wing, which was damaged during the February 1 fire.
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Andy Hyett, chief operating officer at UHS, said: “Bringing patients who require these important diagnostic tests back to UHS is a real milestone in our recovery, which would not have been possible without the hard work and dedication of our staff.
“We appreciate the impact the disruption caused by the fire has had on our patients and are grateful for their understanding and support during the past ten weeks while we have delivered as much of the service as possible, in a different way.
“Our focus has always been on returning as much of this service, as quickly, safely and efficiently as we can.
“This is the first step in bringing our patients and staff back together at UHS, while the Trust works on rebuilding the fire damaged area and creating a permanent home for endoscopy services in the future.”
The fire broke out just after 5.30am on Sunday, February 1, prompting the evacuation of more than 500 patients within 40 minutes.
More than 110 firefighters were involved in bringing the blaze under control.
Since the incident, UHS has only been able to offer emergency, inpatient and therapeutic endoscopies, with other patients diverted to temporary sites including Royal South Hants, Spire, Nuffield and Lymington hospitals.
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Kat Black, specialist medicine matron at UHS, said: “This has been an exceptionally difficult period for everyone.
“We’ve faced uncertainty, ongoing pressure, and moments that have truly tested our resilience.
“What stands out most is how we have worked together, as a team, never losing sight of what matters most – our patients.”
Work is under way at Adanac Park to install three additional mobile endoscopy units, set to open in June.