Transfer Service

Kent, Sussex & Surrey ACC 
Transfer Service

Adult critical care transfer teams provide coordination, triage, decision-support and transfer of critically ill patients. The Adult critical care transfer group focus on transfers occurring within and outside the Network in cases of escalation of care to specialist centres and repatriation. This group provides support and coordinate the delivery of the services of the critical care transfer teams. 

Patient and Family additional information 

It may feel worrying that your relative would be transferred to a different unit or hospital. A move may be required for your relative who is a patient in Intensive care due to a number of reasons. 

Critical care transfers can be carried out to 

• A diagnostic unit e.g for CT scans, MRI. 
• For the purpose of a treatment e.g interventional procedures 
• Repatriation from a specialist facility to be closer to home 
• Due to resource needs e.g staffing, equipment 

These transfers are carried out safely in the hands of highly skilled critical care unit staff who are trained to monitor and manage the needs of the patient during the transfer. Furthermore, special equipment would be used during the transfer to ensure safety. 

You would be informed as a next of kin if your relative is going to be transferred either prior to a scheduled transfer or as soon as possible in an emergency. The information provided should include the reason for the transfer, where your patient is being moved to, time of transfer and as applicable the contact details of the receiving hospital/unit. 

If this is a transfer to another hospital, you would not be able to accompany your relative in the ambulance due to the availability of space. Also, it is advised you make your travel arrangements independently. 

In conclusion, if you have questions or concerns, speak with a member of staff at the unit or seek advice from the Patient Advice and Liaison service (PALS) your relative would be transferred from.