The independent hospital BMI Three Shires, which over the last year has assisted the NHS with essential services for urgent diagnostics and cancer cases in Northampton, has seen the meticulous work of one of its departments recognised with one of the highest patient safety awards.
The work of the endoscopy team has been recognised by the Joint Advisory Group, a national independent regulator which assesses all endoscopy suites to ensure they meet stringent quality standards.
Having JAG accreditation provides Three Shires patients reassurance that they are receiving care of the highest quality, in a safe and clean environment, and delivered by a team of highly skilled, dedicated and professional nurses and practitioners.
Endoscopy lead Clare Smith said: “I feel extremely proud of the team. To us, this is recognition that our hard work continues to enhance our patient experience while maintaining our high standards of care, safety and dignity.”
The BMI Three Shires endoscopy team were required to evidence the highest levels of patient safety at every step. The department underwent a series of audit investigations that examined various aspects of the service including clinical quality, workforce, patient experience and training; assessing each and every step of the patient pathway.
Dr Iqbal Khan, consultant gastroenterologist and endoscopy clinical lead since 2020 said: “I am delighted that we have achieved JAG accreditation with excellent feedback from a rigorous accreditation process led by very experienced and senior JAG assessors. The assessors especially praised the excellent governance and leadership, and the great facilitates available to our patients.
"The JAG accreditation is a seal of quality for UK endoscopy units that indicate a safe, well-governed and professional service. We are proud to offer this high-quality service to our patients and are delighted that our patients show their appreciation through the excellent feedback we receive.”
Throughout the pandemic, BMI Three Shires endoscopy unit was mainly used to treat NHS colorectal patients, ensuring people with urgent cases had the healthcare they needed. Following on from the NHS resilience contract, the hospital has made significant changes to the endoscopy suite, creating day case services that provide patients with easier access and avoids unnecessary ward admissions, therefore reducing overall time in hospital.
