TORBAY Hospital’s anaesthetic team has become one of only eight in the UK to achieve a prestigious national accreditation for the third time.

The team was reaccredited under the Royal College of Anaesthetists’ Anaesthesia Clinical Services Accreditation scheme, following an independent review of its standards of patient care, safety and clinical leadership.

Reviewers praised the department’s culture of teamwork and communication, as well as its commitment to putting patients first.

Dr Claire Shannon, president of the Royal College of Anaesthetists, said the review highlighted ‘the strong culture of teamwork, communication and patient-centred care across the department’.

Lead clinical reviewer Dr David Whitelock said staff felt listened to and supported, with a strong focus on delivering the best possible care.

The review also recognised practical steps taken to support patients, including the hospital’s ‘Home Alone’ service, follow-up telephone calls to every patient after surgery and adaptations for people with additional needs.

Lay reviewer Jenny Dorey said: ‘I would feel very safe and well looked after as a patient in your hospital’.

Anaesthetists care for patients before, during and after surgery, as well as working across maternity services, intensive care and pain management.

Dr Will Key, clinical service lead for anaesthesia, said the achievement reflected the dedication of colleagues across the hospital.

“Behind this achievement are colleagues who bring skill, professionalism and compassion to their work every day,” he said.

He added that the recognition reflected the contribution of anaesthetists, operating department practitioners, nurses, recovery staff and others working together to support patients.

Kate Lissett, chief medical officer, said the accreditation was particularly valuable because it came from experienced peers who had closely examined the service.

She said: ‘People place enormous trust in us when they come into hospital, and this recognition offers added reassurance that they are in safe and highly skilled hands’.

The achievement highlights the team’s continued commitment to maintaining high standards and supporting patients through some of the most vulnerable moments of their treatment.