The latest report from the CQC for Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust (SaTH) shows more improvements required, according to local MP Philip Dunne.

The CQC identified improvements since its last inspection, but still rated the Trust as inadequate. If sustained, the CQC said the improvements would lead to considerably improving patient care.

Mr Dunne said:

“I have already discussed this latest CQC report into SaTH with senior leaders at the Trust and the Integrated Care System to understand the areas of some improvement since the last inspection. The report highlights particularly the empathetic work of the staff, and the high levels of care in maternity.

“But there are also areas where further improvement continues to be required, including end of life care, infection prevention, record keeping and resolving outstanding vacancies.

“These improvements are welcome, but there remains much more to do to get the service back to the required level. More staff and better facilities would undoubtedly help, which will both be made easier under the Hospital Transformation Programme. I raised particular concerns about the Emergency Department and triage times, which were issues flagged in the CQC report, and the impact on ambulance handovers.

“I will continue to engage with the leadership team at the Trust to do all we can to make these improvements in care happen as quickly as possible.”

The CQC inspected four areas and services – urgent and emergency care, medical care, and end of life care at both the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital and the Princess Royal Hospital, and maternity services at the Princess Royal – as well as undertaking a ‘well-led’ inspection for the Trust overall.