Spire Harpenden Hospital

We looked for evidence that people were always treated with kindness, empathy and compassion. We checked that people’s privacy and dignity were respected, that they understood that they and their experience of how they were treated and supported mattered. We also looked for evidence that every effort was made to take people’s wishes into account and respect their choices to achieve the best possible outcomes for them.

At our last assessment we rated this key question as good overall. At this assessment the rating is good.

Across medical care and surgical services, people were treated with kindness, compassion and respect. Patients and those close to them spoke positively about staff and told us they felt supported, listened to and involved in decisions about their care and treatment. Staff took time to understand people's individual needs and preferences and worked in partnership with them to achieve the best possible outcomes.

People's privacy and dignity were respected throughout their care. Staff communicated with patients in a caring and sensitive manner and provided emotional support when needed. Patients were encouraged to ask questions and were given information in a way they could understand, helping them to make informed decisions about their care.

Staff recognised and responded appropriately when people were anxious, distressed or worried. Care was delivered in a way that respected people's rights, promoted their independence where possible and supported what mattered most to them. Staff demonstrated a person-centred approach and were committed to ensuring people felt valued and supported throughout their journey.

Leaders promoted a culture that prioritised compassionate care and positive patient experiences. Feedback from patients was consistently positive and reflected the caring attitude and professionalism of staff.