SURGERY services at Plymouth’s Derriford Hospital have been upgraded from Requiring Improvement to Good by inspectors.

The CQC has announced the results of its completed full assessment of surgery services carried out in April and reviewed ratings across all five key questions: Safe, Effective, Caring, Responsive, and Well-led.

Inspectors found services had improved and people were kept safe and protected from avoidable harm, with effective processes in place to monitor quality and safety.

They praised the ‘positive culture, strong leadership, and commitment to patient safety and dignity’.

Patients consistently described staff as kind, attentive, and respectful, with many highlighting how comfortable they felt during their care.

Jemma Edge, Deputy Chief Operating Officer and Care Group Manager for Surgery, said: ‘I am incredibly proud of all the hard work that has taken place, rewarded with the recognition from the CQC in upgrading our rating.

‘This is such a team effort across multiple individuals and departments, all who have contributed to this outstanding achievement.

'It is a privilege to work alongside such inspiring colleagues who consistently go above and beyond, not only delivering outstanding patient care but also driving continuous improvement in our services for both patients and staff.

‘Their commitment to excellence is evident in our performance across many national benchmarks and continues to develop.’

Patients under the care of surgery have seen multiple improvements with decreased waiting times, the development of one stop services and most importantly improved patient experience.

As part of the report, the CQC has also highlight areas to continue improvement.

The report details areas for focus, including mandatory training compliance and governance processes, mandatory training compliance and governance processes, and enhancing pharmacy on surgical wards.

Staff fed back to inspectors about delays for medications meaning people had not been discharged as quickly as they could be. Improvements in pharmacy have already started.

Nicky Metcalfe, Director of Nursing for Surgery, said: ‘We welcomed the unannounced visit as we have not been inspected as a care group since 2019.

‘The teams were proud to showcase their areas.

'The work the teams have been focusing on has all been worth it as to receive this rating is a fantastic achievement and demonstrates the efforts made to improve pathways and care for our patients.

'I’d really like to thank the engagement of all staff during this inspection, which was particularly admirable as it was a very busy week in when the inspectors arrived. I know they all wanted their opportunity to speak and I am so proud they did.’