- Independent hospital
Nuffield Health North Staffordshire Hospital
Assessment report published 21 September 2026
Contents
Ratings - Diagnostic imaging
Our view of the service
The assessment of diagnostic imaging services took place on 7 and 8 July 2026 due to an aged rating, having last been inspected in 2020. Diagnostic imaging services provided at this location included x-ray including x-ray guidance in theatre, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), mammography, fluoroscopy and ultrasound. We did not observe mammography or fluoroscopy examinations, as they were not being undertaken during the inspection days. The service accepted referrals from private and NHS patients. The quality of care and treatment of children aged between 16 and 18 years of age undergoing diagnostic imaging procedures was not reviewed as part of the assessment of diagnostic imaging. We spoke with 5 patients and where applicable their loved ones, and a range of staff and leaders including a radiologist, radiographers, radiology department assistants, clerical staff, the radiology manager and senior hospital leaders.
During the last inspection there were no breaches of regulation, and there were no breaches of regulation in this inspection.
Safe:
The service had a good learning culture and staff and patients could raise concerns. Managers investigated incidents thoroughly. Patients were protected and kept safe because staff understood local safeguarding arrangements. There were enough staff with the right skills, qualifications and experience in the service ensure high-quality care and treatment. Managers made sure staff received training and had regular appraisals to maintain high-quality care. Staff managed medicines safely. Staff had the skills to identify and respond to unexpected deterioration in a patient’s condition. Staff understood and managed risks from the environment. The facilities and equipment met the needs of patient, although some equipment was aged. The environment was generally clean and well-maintained, although cleaning records were not always complete.
Effective:
Patients, and where appropriate those close to them, were involved in assessments of their needs. Staff reviewed assessments taking account of patient’s physical, emotional and communication needs. Care and treatment were in line with legislation, latest evidence and good practice guidance. Patient outcomes met expectations, and harm free care was the norm. Patient’s comfort was observed throughout procedures.
Patients could freely access drinks. Staff made sure patients understood their care and treatment to enable them to give informed consent.
Caring:
Patients were treated with kindness and compassion. Staff protected their privacy and dignity. They treated patients as individuals and supported their preferences. Staff responded to patients in a timely way. Patients had the opportunity to ask questions about their treatment.
Responsive:
Patients, or their representatives, were involved in decisions about their care and treatment. The service provided information which patients could understand. Patients were invited to give feedback and knew who to speak with if they had concerns. The environment was suitable to meet the needs of people with conditions which could create a barrier to access. The service worked to reduce health and care inequalities through service planning, quality monitoring, staff training and feedback. Patients were involved in making decisions about their care and understood the need for the recommended diagnostic procedures. The service supported staff wellbeing.
Well-led:
Leaders and staff knew the service’s local vision, aims and objectives and understood how their service aligned with this. There was an open culture based on speaking up, listening, learning and trust. Leaders were visible, knowledgeable and supportive, helping staff develop in their roles. Staff felt supported to give feedback and were treated equally, free from bullying or harassment. Staff understood their roles and responsibilities. Leaders had sound oversight of the quality of service being delivered through effective governance and risk management systems. There was a culture of continuous improvement with staff able to contribute ideas through a quality improvement programme.
People's experience of this service
Patients were positive about the staff treating them with warmth and kindness and providing effective care and treatment. Patients said the staff could be contacted easily and were responded to quickly and they all felt they could get assistance if needed. Most patients we spoke with received information about their treatment by email and a phone call before their appointment. Patients told us they were given time to ask questions about their procedure and staff checked they understood what they were having done.