Praise for Cannock Chase Hospital as it faces service cuts
A hospital facing being stripped of services under proposals for a multi-million pound downgrade is meeting all necessary care standards, a watchdog has found.
Cannock Chase Hospital was praised by the Care Quality Commission following an unannounced inspection.
Patients were assessed quickly, care plans were produced and closely followed and staff were 'respectful and helpful', the CQC report states.
Bosses today paid tribute to staff for their professionalism 'during difficult circumstances' since the downgrade plans were published. A report commissioned by Monitor claims services should be withdrawn from Cannock Chase and Stafford hospitals through a £70million downgrade.
Special administrators have been appointed to take control of Mid Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust, which runs both hospitals. They will make their own recommendations to Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt.
The CQC reported that dignity for patients was promoted at Cannock Chase Hospital and that staff were given good training opportunities.
The inspectors attended two out of three inpatient wards at the hospital and spoke to 16 patients, six relatives and nine members of staff. "They are all so good, nothing has been too much trouble," said one patient.
