Staff from Withybush Hospital’s Endoscopy Unit are celebrating after being awarded accreditation from the Joint Advisory Group (JAG) on GI Endoscopy, joining Glangwili, Bronglais and Brecon War Memorial Hospitals as the fourth accredited endoscopy unit in Wales.

This accreditation is the formal recognition that an endoscopy service has demonstrated that it has the competence to deliver against the measures in the endoscopy global rating scale standards.

The scheme is patient-centred and workforce focused, based on the principle of independent assessment against recognised standards.

In order to meet the strict criteria for this prestigious award, both the environment and procedures were reviewed and upgraded to enhance the patient journey.

Patients visiting the unit will now benefit from a relaxing waiting room, separate male and female changing areas and access to a private quiet room.

The JAG report praised the work of staff in the unit, stating that ‘The endoscopy team are a model for others to follow and learn from’ and the unit provides an ‘excellent environment for trainees’.

Dr. Faiz Ali, consultant gastroenterologist and physician and clinical lead for endoscopy, was commended in the report for his ‘highly effective leadership’, supported by ‘robust governance and a highly competent workforce’.

Hywel Dda University Health Board chief executive Steve Moore was delighted to hear the news: “I would like to extend my congratulations to the team in the Endoscopy Unit in Withybush Hospital.

“These assessments are not easy to pass - this is great news for our hospitals and our patients. Well done all!”

Chris Hopkins, general manager for Scheduled Care, commented: “This is excellent news for the people of Pembrokeshire and my thanks go to the teams for all of their hard work and dedication.”

Stephanie Hire, service delivery manager for Group One Scheduled Care, said: “It is with immense pride that I manage such a brilliant team at Withybush Hospital and of their hard work and effort enabling the Endoscopy Unit to attain JAG accreditation.

“I would like to thank the entire team who assisted in the accreditation process, I am extremely proud of their achievement.”

Senior nurse manager for endoscopy, Jill Griffiths, added: “Following this success we now aim to build upon our skills and knowledge to facilitate the unit in Prince Philip Hospital towards accreditation, an achievement that would make us the first JAG accredited health board in the country.”