South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has become the first trust in the North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care System to gain national recognition for its liver services.
The liver team, which is based at The James Cook University Hospital, was awarded the Improving Quality in Liver Services (IQILS) level 2 accreditation by the Royal College of Physicians (RCP).
Initially, the hospital team achieved level 1 accreditation in 2022 and worked tirelessly to climb the ladder and gain the prestigious level 2 award.
The assessment team highlighted the “astonishing” pace of progress made by the liver team over the years.
The service was also applauded for being “extremely well-led” at all levels with a “strong and clear vision” and the positive impact on its services due to collaborative working with North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust.
Dr Craig, consultant gastroenterologist and liver service lead said: “I’m delighted that the trust has been recognised by the Royal College of Physicians for our work in improving liver services.
This IQILS accreditation is the result of an enormous amount of hard work from the whole team and demonstrates our commitment to providing excellent care for our liver patients.
“Liver disease is a leading cause of death in England and Wales, with the northeast particularly badly affected. Hence, we must continue to invest in and develop liver services and research across the Tees Valley.”
Chief medical officer Mike Stewart added: “This accreditation demonstrates that we are providing high-quality liver services for patients including clinics, inpatient care and outpatient services.
“Well done to everyone involved.”
The clinical team consists of three liver consultants, a specialist trainee and two advanced nurse specialists supported by an administration and management team.
They investigate and manage a wide range of liver conditions ranging from abnormal liver blood tests to liver failure and are also working on further public health projects related to liver disease.