ONE of the frontline facilities at a Hampshire hospital has been given a clean bill of health by national watchdogs.

The Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC) at Lymington New Forest Hospital has been rated "Good" following its first inspection by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

The hospital is run by Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust but services at the UTC are by provided by Partnering Health Ltd (PHL).

Formerly known as the minor injuries unit, it treats patients with non-critical conditions, easing the pressure on larger hospitals.

Ross Brand, chief executive of PHL, said: "We're absolutely delighted that the Lymington UTC was given a 'Good' overall rating following a recent CQC inspection.

"The Lymington team have worked extremely hard under very challenging circumstances during the pandemic, so the outcome is a testament to the outstanding team, their teamwork and dedication to patients."

The unit was graded "Good" in terms of being safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led.

CQC inspectors said areas of outstanding practice included a "hot hub" in the car park, where people with Covid symptoms can be seen face-to-face if they have been booked in by a clinician.

They also praised the "unique clinical pathways" that helped ensure patients were referred to the right service quickly.

The inspectors noted that people were treated with "compassion, kindness, dignity and respect". They added that patients were able to access care and treatment within an appropriate timescale.

A recent patient who reviewed the service on the NHS Choices website praised the "first class staff and treatment".

They added: "I attended the urgent treatment centre after receiving an injury to my shoulder following a fall.

"The nurse who attended to me was absolutely first class. Everything about her - her approach, examination and explanation of what treatment I was going to receive was very reassuring.

"I would like the nurse in the centre to know how professional she was. A big 'thank you' to her."

The patient added: "I was sent for an X-ray. Staff in that department were also pleasant and helpful."