Improving endocrine care across north east London and beyond
Patients with endocrine conditions are set to benefit from a more joined-up and consistent model of care as Barts Health brings together specialist expertise, surgery, research and clinical support.
Endocrine conditions occur when the body's hormone-producing glands release too much or too little of a hormone, or when the body does not respond to hormones properly. Common examples include diabetes, hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, which can affect metabolism, energy levels, growth and overall health.
The move represents a long-held ambition for the endocrinology team, which is already recognised nationally for providing highly specialised services not widely available elsewhere in the UK. The service provides local endocrine care for patients across our boroughs while also acting as a tertiary referral centre for highly complex cases from across north east London, the wider North East Thames region and beyond. It also runs what is believed to be the UK's busiest specialist endocrine day unit, caring for more than 2,500 patients annually.
A key part of the programme will see endocrine surgery, including neck and abdominal procedures, brought together at St Bartholomew's Hospital. Around 300 endocrine procedures a year are expected to be delivered through the new model, with approximately 200 lower-risk neck operations taking place in the new Smithfield building. More complex procedures will continue to be carried out in the King George V building.
Greater access to specialist endocrinologists throughout the patient pathway is expected to improve outcomes, strengthen clinical decision-making and create a more seamless experience for patients. Much of patients' assessment, follow-up care and outpatient treatment will continue to be delivered closer to home.
The plans build on recommendations from the national Getting It Right First Time (GIRFT) programme, which highlighted variation in areas such as length of stay and access to specialist endocrine medical input. Clinicians believe bringing services together will improve the quality and consistency of care.
The ambition extends beyond Barts Health. The team is strengthening links with hospitals across north east London and the wider North East Thames region through regional multidisciplinary team meetings, shared expertise and specialist advice. The plans have also been developed with input from patient groups, including the British Thyroid Foundation, helping to ensure patients' priorities remain central to the new model.
Research will stay at the heart of the service. Despite being a small department, the team has built a strong research reputation, leading NIHR-funded studies and publishing in leading medical journals. The development of endocrine services at St Bartholomew's Hospital is also expected to create opportunities to grow private practice activity.
Dr Mona Waterhouse, consultant endocrinologist and clinical lead for Endocrinology at Barts Health, said: "This is about bringing together our expertise in a way that delivers the very best care for patients. By combining specialist clinical support, world-leading research and closer collaboration with colleagues across the region, we can improve outcomes, reduce variation in care and ensure more patients have access to the right expertise at the right time."
Yulu’s road to recovery
When Yulu Tang, a 41-year-old software engineer, was diagnosed with Cushing’s syndrome in 2024, he became so weak that he lost his mobility and was unable to leave home. A CT scan revealed a tumour on his adrenal gland, and he also suffered spinal fractures.
Initially too unwell for surgery, Yulu underwent an operation to remove his adrenal glands in September 2025. He is now recovering with regular support from Dr Waterhouse and the team at St Bartholomew’s Hospital.
After a long period of being housebound, Yulu has regained much of his mobility and can now walk independently, use public transport and work from home.
Although he still experiences some back pain and his bones remain weak, he says he is “a lot better than what I was in 2024”.
Yulu describes his experience at St Bartholomew’s as a very positive one, praising the care and support he has received from the team.
“The team saved my life”, he said.
Pictured (top), from left to right, the consultant team: Dr Wing-Chiu Candy Sze, Dr Scott Akker, Dr Mona Waterhouse, Professor William Drake and Dr Maralyn Druce. Pictured (below): Yulu Tang.
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