THE A&E departments at both the QE2 and Lister hospitals have passed unannounced inspections with flying colours.

Inspection teams from the Care Quality Commission dropped in on the hospitals in WGC and Stevenage at the turn of the last year.

The results, which have only just been published, show a good quality of care at both hospitals.

At the QE2, staff members were noted to be sensitive to the needs or patients, who told inspectors they felt their privacy and dignity was promoted and respected.

Workers at the Howlands hospital also had high morale, and felt valued by NHS bosses.

Nick Carver, chief executive of the East and North Herts NHS Trust, said: “Although we are always prepared to respond to an unannounced visit from a team of inspectors, to receive visits either side of one of the busiest times possible for our emergency teams – as well as during a period of very poor weather – always raises the stakes for everyone involved.

“While we were confident our emergency departments would be rated well, it was still pleasing to read this in the reports that have now been published.

“Given that we just announced our best performance in the decade since the trust was created in April 2000, the results of these two inspections have shown just how far we have travelled in building excellent services.

“For our emergency teams, the next big step they will be taking is to create a single, combined trauma service at the Lister by early 2014, supported by 24-hour local A&E services at both at the Lister and QE2 for the majority of those who attend a traditional emergency department today.”

The inspections took place at the QE2 on December 30 last year, and at the Lister a few days later, on January 5.

During their time at both hospitals, inspectors talked with staff in both departments, as well as members of the public using the services on the day.