08.10.14
Homerton hospital leads in UK anaesthetic service provision
Homerton Hospital’s anaesthetics department has become the first in the UK to receive the peer-reviewed Anaesthesia Clinical Services Accreditation (ACSA).
Since the Royal College of Anaesthetists (RCoA) launched the scheme in 2013, it has received acclaim from national regulators and, to date, more than 40 NHS anaesthetic departments have begun working towards meeting the ACSA standards.
But Homerton is first of these to achieve accreditation. Engagement with the scheme entails a period of detailed self-assessment against the ACSA standards in order that areas which may need improvement are identified. Assistance and support in improving those areas is then offered.
Dr Sade Okutubo, lead for the ACSA Homerton process and the Clinical Lead in Perioperative, Critical Care and Chronic Pain Services at the hospital, said: “Engaging in the process and working together for a common purpose has boosted department team spirit.
“The process has led to our going over every aspect of the service with a fine-tooth comb. We can confidently evidence a high-quality service and care for our patients.”
Professor Sir Mike Richards, chief inspector of hospitals at the Care Quality Commission (CQC), added that he supports the work being undertaken by RCoA. “And the ACSA accreditation programme should in due course be a very useful source of information on the quality of anaesthetic service for the CQC,” he said.
The Homerton Anaesthetics department is being awarded a commemoration plaque to recognise its achievement today.
Dr Peter Venn, who is the vice-president and chair of ACSA, at the RCoA and lead on the review, stated that he was “hugely impressed” with the staff and facilities at Homerton. “The department demonstrated a strong commitment to its patients,” he noted.
So, if you need to go under the gas – this is the place to be. Or so it would seem. Congratulations to Homerton from everyone at NHE.
Tell us what you think – have your say below, or email us directly at [email protected]