West Cornwall Hospital surgery rated ‘Good’ across all areas by CQC

Surgery at West Cornwall Hospital has climbed a rung. Following its latest inspection, the Care Quality Commission has moved the service up from ‘Requires Improvement’ to ‘Good’, with inspectors handing out a top mark in every category they looked at.

What the inspectors found

West Cornwall Hospital, part of Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust, was rated ‘Good’ in all five areas the CQC assesses: safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led. Inspectors visited the Penzance hospital on 10 and 11 March 2026, focusing on its surgery services. The overall rating for the hospital remains ‘Good’.

The report described effective systems and processes in place to deliver safe, high-quality care. Inspectors noted a positive culture of safety and learning, effective medicines management, strong infection prevention and control, and good governance arrangements. No regulation breaches were found and no action plan is required.

Patients told inspectors they felt informed and involved in decisions about their care, and described staff as kind, professional and attentive.

‘Delighted the CQC has recognised the improvements’

Acting Chief Executive Officer Kim O’Keeffe said: “We’re delighted the CQC has recognised the improvements made within our surgery services at West Cornwall Hospital. Inspectors found effective systems and processes were in place to deliver safe, high-quality care and recognised the kindness and professionalism of our colleagues.

“While there is always more for us to do, we welcome the feedback on areas where we can continue to improve. This report reflects the commitment, integrity and compassion our colleagues show every day for patients, families and one another.”

Acting Chief Nursing Officer Bernadette George added: “We know how important compassionate, person-centred care is to the people who use our services and their families. It is particularly pleasing to see patients describe our colleagues as kind, professional and attentive, and to hear they felt involved in decisions about their care.

“This report recognises the dedication of our teams across West Cornwall Hospital and the difference they make every day through safe, compassionate and high-quality care.”

West Cornwall Hospital is one of three main sites run by Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust, alongside the Royal Cornwall Hospital in Truro and St Michael’s Hospital in Hayle. Between them the sites hold around 750 inpatient beds.