A service that is unique in Europe, in that it cares for patients with HIV associated neurological impairment, has been rated Outstanding overall by the Care Quality Commission.
Mildmay Mission Hospital in the London Borough of Tower Hamlets, was rated Outstanding for being caring and responsive. It was rated Good for being safe, effective and well-led.
Mildmay Mission Hospital is a voluntary charitable hospital and rehabilitation unit. It provides specialist care and rehabilitation for people living with complex HIV-related conditions, particularly HIV Associated Neuro-cognitive Disorder (HAND), also known as HIV-Related Neuro-cognitive Impairment (HNCI) or AIDS Dementia. It is Europe’s only centre dedicated to the rehabilitation of people living with HIV related brain injuries.
The hospital is an independent organisation which provides services to NHS patients and 20 London clinical commissioning groups as well as CCGs and local authorities in other parts of the UK.
The hospital provides inpatient care and day services. There are two inpatient wards, with capacity for 14 and 12 patients respectively.
CQC’s inspection team found that Mildmay used information technology in a therapeutic way to help patients improve their cognitive function and problem solving skills.
There was a comprehensive volunteer support programme to provide one-to-one social time and support to patients to reduce their risk of social isolation.
The hospital board had representation from two HIV positive individuals, including a former patient. This helped ensure the voice of HIV positive people was included in decision making.
Patients were involved in service design and staff sought patients’ suggestions on how they could better support them and meet their rehabilitation needs.
However, there were some areas where inspectors found there was room for improvement.
There were a number of nursing vacancies and the hospital was heavily reliant on agency and bank nurses to cover rota gaps.
Some hospital policies were out of date and needed to be updated.
There were isolated examples of do not resuscitate orders (DNR) not recorded or applied correctly.
The Chief Inspector of Hospitals, Professor Sir Mike Richards, said:
“Mildmay Mission is a unique and impressive hospital. Staff provided additional support for patients, beyond clinical care. They had a detailed, holistic understanding about their patients’ lives and needs."
“Staff advocated for and ensured the best interest of the patient when liaising with external organisations. There was extensive recognition of and provision for the emotional support and wellbeing of patients, with inclusive and personalised spiritual and social support."
“The hospital provided comprehensive rehabilitation training and support to help patients maintain or regain independence in their daily lives.”
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Mildmay Mission is a unique and impressive hospital
The Chief Inspector of Hospitals, Professor Sir Mike Richards