Wrexham Maelor Hospital's Prehabilitation team win Research, Transformation, Improvement and Innovation Award

9/10/2025

Wrexham Maelor Hospital’s Prehabilitation Team have been recognised for their pioneering work in cancer care, winning the Research, Transformation, Improvement and Innovation Award at this year’s Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board Achievement Awards. 

Over five years ago, Consultant Anaesthetist Dr Neil Agnew envisioned a service that could dramatically improve outcomes for cancer patients by addressing both the physical and psychological needs of individuals awaiting major surgery. His vision led to the establishment of the Specialist Prehabilitation Unit at Wrexham, a transformative service that prepares patients for surgery through a bespoke four-week supervised exercise and wellbeing programme. 

Under Dr Agnew’s leadership, the Prehabilitation Team has achieved a 90% adherence rate to the programme, resulting in significant improvements in patient recovery. Postoperative hospital stays have been reduced by 2–3 days, surgical complications have been halved, and 65% of patients continue healthy lifestyle habits after surgery. These outcomes not only enhance patient recovery but also reduce long-term healthcare burdens. 

Dr Agnew’s approach exemplifies collaboration and innovation, engaging service users, families, healthcare professionals, and local MPs to ensure a holistic, patient-centred service. His leadership inspires multidisciplinary teams to work towards a shared goal of improving surgical outcomes and postoperative quality of life. 

Dr Andy Campbell, Consultant in Critical Care at Wrexham Maelor Hospital, said: “Dr Neil Agnew and the Prehabilitation Team have set a new standard in patient-centred care. Their innovative approach to prehabilitation is transforming the surgical journey for cancer patients, improving outcomes, and making a real difference to patients’ lives. This award recognises their outstanding dedication, vision, and leadership.” 

The principal sponsor of the Achievement Awards was Centerprise International. For more than 40 years, Centerprise International has been dedicated to providing innovative, tailored IT solutions customers across both the public and private sectors.  

Jez Nash, Chief Executive Officer of the awards’ principal sponsor Centerprise International, said: “We were again delighted to support the awards and help recognise the outstanding efforts of NHS staff across North Wales. 

“Centerprise International has a long and proud partnership with the NHS in Wales, and tonight’s examples of staff going above and beyond to support both patients and their colleagues was a fantastic reminder of the special work they do. 

“Congratulations again to everyone shortlisted.”