PATIENTS have hailed Whiston and St Helens hospitals as the best in the UK.

In five separate surveys, they judged the quality of care and treatment they receive as first class.

The best hospital for patient experience award from Comparative Health Knowledge System (CHKS) Top Hospitals recognises the consistently high standards of care provided at St Helens and Knowsley Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust.

Ann Marr, chief executive said: “Our staff show exceptional professionalism and work incredibly hard throughout the hospitals to provide high standards of care to each and every patient.

“This award is testament to that hard work and I would like to thank all of our staff for their continued support.

“It is fantastic news that our patients recognise their commitment and feel they are receiving the very best care at our hospitals.”

The trust was chosen following an in independent analysis of data from five areas.

These included two Care Quality Commission surveys for inpatients, accident and emergency, outpatients and maternity.

The national friends and family test scores and patient reported outcome measures were also assessed.

The patient led assessment of the care environment and patient reported outcome measures were also scrutinised.

Jason Harries, managing director, CHKS said: “Staff at St Helens and Knowsley Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust should take pride in having won this award on the basis of our analysis of patient experience outcomes.”

The trust says it actively engages with patients through a number of initiatives.

Patients belong to key action groups which focus on the six nursing standards of communication, care, courage, compassion, commitment and competence.

Patient power forums examine services and discuss ways to improve care and the environment.

Managers meet with five patient families every day to listen and learn from their experience.

Patients attending trust board meetings discuss experiences that were positive and also highlight those which need improvements.

Staff learn lessons from patient stories.