Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust stands as one of the most prestigious healthcare institutions in the United Kingdom, operating from the heart of the Cambridge Biomedical Campus. The trust manages two primary facilities - Addenbrooke's Hospital and the Rosie Hospital - serving both the local Cambridge population and providing specialist services to patients from across eastern England and beyond. As a member of the elite Shelford Group of leading English university teaching hospitals, CUH combines cutting-edge medical care with world-class research and education.
The trust's position within the Cambridge Biomedical Campus creates unique advantages for patient care and medical advancement. This internationally renowned research campus has experienced remarkable expansion over the past two decades, fostering collaboration between healthcare providers, research institutions, and pharmaceutical companies. The proximity to the University of Cambridge and other research partners enables rapid translation of scientific discoveries into clinical practice, benefiting patients through access to innovative treatments and clinical trials.
Research activities at CUH are extensive and impactful, with approximately 1,000 research studies underway at any given time. The trust received £114 million from the National Institute for Health and Care Research in 2017 for the Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, cementing its position as a leader in medical research. Studies span from common conditions like diabetes and heart disease to specialized research in rare dementias and cancers, offering hope to patients with conditions that have limited treatment options elsewhere.
The trust's specialist services draw patients from across the country for complex procedures and treatments unavailable in standard hospitals. Transplantation services, including organ and tissue transplants, represent a particular area of excellence. The neurological intensive care unit provides specialized care for patients with severe brain and nervous system conditions, while rare cancer treatments offer hope to patients with unusual or challenging diagnoses. These specialist capabilities position CUH as a vital national resource for complex medical cases.
Educational excellence forms a fundamental pillar of the trust's mission as a teaching hospital affiliated with the University of Cambridge. Medical students, nursing students, and allied health professionals receive training within the hospital's wards and departments, learning from experienced clinicians while contributing to patient care. This educational role ensures a pipeline of highly skilled healthcare professionals while maintaining the highest standards of clinical practice through continuous learning and improvement.
The trust's facilities reflect its commitment to supporting advanced medical care and research. The Cambridge Clinical Research Facilities provide 24/7 clinical beds specifically designed to support Phase I and Phase II clinical studies, enabling early-stage testing of new treatments. The onsite pharmacy and BioRepository facilitate complex research protocols, while the Cambridge Clinical Trials Unit offers comprehensive support for study setup and management. These specialized resources attract pharmaceutical companies and research organizations seeking to conduct high-quality clinical trials.
Genomic medicine represents a frontier where CUH leads national efforts. As one of 13 Genomic Medicine Centres and the lead site for the East of England Genomic Medicine Centre, the trust plays a crucial role in the 100,000 Genomes Project. This groundbreaking initiative sequences whole genomes from patients with rare diseases and cancers, advancing understanding of genetic factors in disease and paving the way for personalized medicine approaches.
Digital transformation has been central to the trust's modernization efforts, with the implementation of an Epic Systems electronic health record system representing a £200 million investment over ten years. This comprehensive digital infrastructure, supported by Hewlett-Packard systems, enables seamless information sharing across departments, improves patient safety through reduced errors, and facilitates research through better data management. The eHospital transformation positions CUH at the forefront of healthcare digitalization.
Recent achievements highlight the trust's continued excellence and innovation. A new radiotherapy machine acquisition promises faster treatment for cancer patients, reducing waiting times and improving outcomes. The Academy of Medical Sciences recognized consultant Sam Behjati as a Fellow for his groundbreaking work on childhood cancer diagnosis and treatment. Research into enhanced breast cancer screening suggests potential for detecting 3,500 additional cases annually, potentially saving 700 lives per year through earlier intervention.
Patient and family support extends beyond medical treatment, with facilities designed to provide comfort during difficult times. The new garden near the Rosie Hospital's main entrance offers a peaceful space for reflection and respite, representing a permanent addition that acknowledges the emotional aspects of healthcare journeys. The trust's commitment to holistic care includes specialized support for conditions like menopause, with comprehensive information and treatment pathways available.
Workforce development remains crucial to maintaining service excellence, with over 100 different roles available across clinical and support functions. The trust's position as a Teaching Partner of the University of Cambridge enhances its ability to attract top talent while providing career development opportunities. Online access to health records through secure portals empowers patients to engage actively in their care, reflecting modern expectations for healthcare transparency and patient involvement.
The trust actively seeks patient feedback to drive service improvements, recognizing that those receiving care offer invaluable insights into what works well and what needs enhancement. This commitment to listening and responding to patient voices ensures services evolve to meet changing needs and expectations. Regular surveys, feedback mechanisms, and patient involvement in service design demonstrate genuine engagement with the communities served by CUH, making it not just a provider of healthcare but a responsive partner in community wellbeing.
