Highland Hospice has received the highest grade available for its compassionate care to patients following an unannounced inspection last month.
The latest Healthcare Improvement Scotland (HIS) report has praised the hospice’s involvement of patients’ loved ones, with inspectors awarding the organisation with the exceptional standard for the quality indicator – the highest possible grade.
Within the report, it is highlighted by HIS that patients felt they were kept informed at all stages of their care, along with carers and families, including at times where vital decisions are made.
Inspectors also praised Highland Hospice’s feedback process and how the organisation uses this to enhance the service they offer to users. Various leaflets and comment boxes are provided to allow feedback, as well as clear information on the complaint process to ensure that all avenues are covered, allowing for changes to be implemented by taking complaints into consideration.
The report notes the high levels of dignity and respect patients are treated with, whilst six patients and two relatives who were spoken to rated staff highly on their friendliness and approachability.
Earlier this month, the charity also received a glowing report from its Investors in People assessment, where it was graded as high performing in all three categories, covering the values and beliefs, structuring work and sustainable success of Highland Hospice.
Highland Hospice’s chief executive Kenny Steele said: “We are delighted that our care of individuals and involvement of their loved ones have scored highly as these are vital components of our ethos.
“The Investors in People assessment is also heartening, as it indicates that we are making great progress towards our ambition of achieving gold standard.
“None of this could be achieved without our wonderfully committed staff members and volunteers who deliver our care so compassionately. Each person plays a part in our overall performance, and I am so proud to have such a great team around me.”
Both the Hospice’s new short-term inpatient care services have also been seen to be improving through continuous evaluation and providing patients with the tools to self-manage their conditions.
One patient, who has already been involved in both the respiratory rehabilitation project and the neurological support programme, praised the huge emotional and physical benefits both services have already delivered.