Hospital surgery services improve in inspection

Surgery services at a hospital have improved from "requires improvement" to "good" following a recent inspection, the Care Quality Commission (CQC) has said.

The Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust said CQC inspectors visited West Cornwall Hospital in Penzance in March 2026.

Acting chief executive officer, Kim O'Keeffe, said she was delighted the CQC noted the improvements made and "recognised the kindness and professionalism of our colleagues".

"This report reflects the commitment, integrity and compassion our colleagues show every day for patients, families and one another," she said.

The trust said the report "highlighted a positive culture of safety and learning, effective medicines management, strong infection prevention and control standards, and good governance arrangements supporting high-quality care".

Bernadette George, acting chief nursing officer, said: "We know how important compassionate, person-centred care is to the people who use our services and their families.

"It is particularly pleasing to see patients describe our colleagues as kind, professional and attentive, and to hear they felt involved in decisions about their care."

She added: "This report recognises the dedication of our teams across West Cornwall Hospital and the difference they make every day through safe, compassionate and high-quality care."

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