Care Quality Commission praise quality of care with UHCW gynaecology services rated Good across all areas

Gynaecology services at University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire (UHCW) NHS Trust have been rated Good following an inspection by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

The assessment, carried out at University Hospital, rated the gynaecology service Good overall and Good across all five key areas: safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led.

Inspectors highlighted a strong learning culture, thorough investigation of incidents, safe and clean facilities, compassionate care, effective multidisciplinary working and visible, supportive leadership. Patients told inspectors they felt safe and well cared for, with staff described as kind, respectful, empathetic and professional.

The report also praised the service’s focus on improving access and reducing health inequalities, including plans to make women’s healthcare more accessible in local communities.

Inspectors noted that staff were passionate about improvement, innovation and research, including robotic surgery for benign gynaecology conditions and ongoing work to become an Endometriosis Centre, which came to fruition earlier this year when the Trust received accreditation from the British Society for Gynaecological Endoscopy.

Group Director of Nursing and Allied Health Professionals Andrea Hargreaves said: “Our gynaecology teams provide care at some of the most important, sensitive and difficult moments in women’s lives, and I am proud that inspectors saw the compassion, professionalism and respect our staff show to every patient.

“The report reflects the hard work taking place to enhance pathways, support women’s health and make care more accessible. We will build on this positive rating as we continue to listen to patients, support our staff and improve services for women and their families.”

The department provides outpatient, inpatient and day case care, a 24/7 Emergency Gynaecology Unit, specialist cancer care and a wide range of surgical treatments, including open and laparoscopic procedures. The CQC identified one area for improvement relating to staff training compliance.

Professor Andy Hardy, Chief Executive Officer at UHCW NHS Trust, said: “This Good rating is a testament to the dedication, skill and compassion of our gynaecology teams, who work incredibly hard to provide safe, high-quality care for women across Coventry and Warwickshire.

“I am particularly pleased that inspectors recognised the positive culture within the service, the kindness shown to patients and the commitment of our staff to continuous improvement. We know there is always more to do, and we are already taking action to address the area identified for further improvement.”

The overall rating for University Hospital and the Hospital of St Cross in Rugby remains Good.