The Immunology and Allergy Unit at Castle Hill Hospital has received national recognition for the quality of its care, following a formal assessment by the UK’s accreditation programme for primary immunodeficiency services.
The East Yorkshire Regional Adult Immunology and Allergy Unit underwent a QPIDS inspection in June. Assessors heard a detailed presentation from Clinical Lead Dr Sujoy Khan, toured the department, interviewed staff and spoke to patients attending clinics.
According to the assessment report, inspectors found “a well-written, concise operational plan,” praised the “cohesive team” delivering the service, and noted that patients were very complimentary. They also highlighted the bright and clean hospital environment.
Dr Khan, Consultant Immunologist and Allergist, said the accreditation marks a significant milestone for the service.
“This is the first time we’ve received this accreditation,” he said. “We’ve been trying to get it for a while now but COVID hit, and we had to put it on the backburner. We want to use the most advanced treatments available, and having this accreditation helps us pitch for these specialist options.”
QPIDS accreditation evaluates clinical services against nationally established standards and supports continuous improvement by identifying best practice and areas for development.
Immunology Clinical Nurse Specialist Beccy Avison said the recognition reinforces patient confidence.
“It gives our patients more confidence they’re getting a better service. We feel very proud to be given this recognition.”
Preparation for accreditation typically involves 12 to 24 months of self-assessment and evidence gathering, though the timeframe varies depending on local capacity. Standards are developed in partnership with clinicians, managers and patient representatives.
Victoria Armstrong, General Manager for Infection and Immunity, said the feedback from assessors reflected the team’s dedication.
“The assessors fed back how impressed they had been with the Immunology team and the great work they’re doing on a daily basis, which had been mentioned by the patients,” she said. “The team pulled together to ensure evidence was provided for all the amazing work done by the specialty. They really do deserve this.”
Accredited services must submit annual evidence showing that standards are being maintained, and undergo a full on-site reassessment every five years. Between visits, QPIDS conducts yearly remote reviews to ensure continued compliance.
The Immunology Team will now turn their attention to their next goal: accreditation for the Allergy specialty, building on the momentum of their recent success.
