Specialist cancer trust retains its ‘Outstanding’ rating

The Trust was previously rated Outstanding by the CQC in 2018 and has further improved its rating in the most recent inspection to score ‘Outstanding’ in 4 out of 5 domains.

Professor Ted Baker, England’s Chief Inspector of Hospitals, said: “The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust is a beacon of Outstanding practice. It was Outstanding overall before but has improved by achieving Outstanding in four of the main categories CQC rate. It is a well-run centre of excellence in the study and treatment of cancer and is known worldwide for the work that it does.”

Inspectors commented on the collegiate and supportive culture, strong teamwork, and the quality, kindness and compassion of care given to patients.

The inspectors noted several key points, including:

• “Feedback from people who used the service was continuously positive. Patients felt their care was delivered with exceptional kindness and patience. They believe that staff went above and beyond their expectations and without exception, demonstrate compassion and empathy in their roles.”
• “The Trust used innovative and pioneering approaches to provide evidence-based care. The Trust had a strong national and international reputation for research.”
• “Staff were proud of the organisation as a place to work and spoke highly of the culture.”

Dame Cally Palmer, Chief Executive of The Royal Marsden said: “I would like to thank and congratulate all the staff of The Royal Marsden for the exceptional quality of care they deliver for patients every day, which is reflected in the CQC’s rating of ‘Outstanding’ for the Trust overall. This is a fantastic result for The Royal Marsden and especially for our patients who can have confidence that they are receiving the very best treatment and care, and supporting us to improve survival for patients worldwide through research and innovative practice.

Read the full report here.