Medical care services at Chesterfield Royal Hospital have been rated Good by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), improving from a previous rating of Requires Improvement

The inspection, which took place in June 2026, found that the Trust's Medical Care core service, including older people's care, had improved significantly since its previous inspection. The CQC also upgraded both the Safe and Effective domains to Good. The hospital's overall rating remains Good across all five domains.

Inspectors found that patients were receiving safe, effective and well-coordinated care, supported by strong multidisciplinary working, a positive safety culture and effective leadership.

Importantly, feedback from patients was overwhelmingly positive. Patients described staff as caring, respectful and supportive, while inspectors observed colleagues treating people with kindness, dignity and compassion, even during periods of significant pressure.

Dr Hal Spencer, Chief Executive at Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, said: "We are delighted that the CQC has recognised the significant progress made across our Medicine Division and confirmed an improved rating of Good.

"This achievement reflects the dedication, professionalism and compassion of our staff, who continue to provide high-quality care despite the operational pressures facing the NHS.

"What makes me most proud is the feedback from patients. The report highlights colleagues caring for people with kindness, dignity and respect, and acknowledges the extraordinary efforts staff make each day to provide compassionate care."

The report highlights a number of strengths, including improvements in patient safety, clinical effectiveness, leadership, governance and multidisciplinary teamwork. Inspectors recognised the commitment of colleagues to continuously improving services and delivering positive outcomes for patients.

Nick Parry-Okeden, Divisional Operations Director for Medicine, said: "This is a proud moment for everyone working across our medical services. The report recognises the hard work, resilience and commitment colleagues demonstrate every day in caring for patients.

"It is particularly meaningful that inspectors heard such positive feedback from patients and families and saw first-hand the compassion and professionalism of our teams.

"While we are pleased to see the progress recognised, we remain focused on continuing to improve and ensuring our patients receive the highest quality care possible."

As with all inspections, the CQC identified areas where further improvements are needed, including workforce pressures, compliance with mandatory training, aspects of ward environments and communication with patients and families. The Trust already has improvement plans in place to address these areas and will continue to monitor progress through established governance and assurance arrangements.

The inspection findings provide independent assurance of the quality of care being delivered at Chesterfield Royal Hospital and recognise the sustained efforts of staff to improve services for patients across North Derbyshire.

The full CQC report is available on the Care Quality Commission website.