The team is one of only eight in the UK to achieve this accreditation, which assesses services against national standards for patient experience, patient safety, and clinical leadership. Anaesthetists play a vital role in patient care before, during, and after surgery, as well as in maternity services, intensive care, and pain management.
The reaccreditation followed an independent peer review. Dr Claire Shannon, President of the Royal College of Anaesthetists, commended the team's "strong culture of teamwork, communication and patient-centred care". Lead clinical reviewer Dr David Whitelock noted the department's "open door" communication and strong commitment to patient care.
Lay reviewer Jenny Dorey highlighted the 'Home Alone' service, which involves telephone calls to patients post-surgery and adaptations for those with additional needs, stating, "I would feel very safe and well looked after as a patient in your hospital."
Dr Will Key, Clinical Service Lead for Anaesthesia, expressed pride in the team's achievement, emphasising the collective effort of anaesthetists, operating department practitioners, nurses, and recovery staff. "Behind this achievement are colleagues who bring skill, professionalism and compassion to their work every day," he said.
Kate Lissett, Chief Medical Officer, underscored the significance of the peer-led recognition. "This recognition is important because it comes from experienced peers who have looked closely at the service and the care our patients receive," she stated. "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."
