BROMSGROVE patients are getting just what the doctor ordered from a top class hospital, according to a watchdog report.

Bromsgrove and Redditch Community Health Council (CHC) visited Worcestershire Royal Hospital, which is used by many town residents.

Three CHC members toured the site and were impressed by the facilities on offer.

Member John Browne said: "Our overall view was that the hospital was first class and a credit to the NHS, as were the staff who all work within the Trust."

The report states that the paediatric intensive care unit had an impressive layout and equipment and staff were dedicated and enthusiastic. The delivery ward was given top marks, as was the bereavement suite, which was fitted out to the highest standard. A private garden of remembrance with individual memorial stones also ranked highly.

Findings on the medical assessment unit showed it was overstretched and there was an insufficient number of nursing staff to cope with a daily increasing workload without the use of agency nurses.

Accident and emergency got the thumbs up with good-sized patient cubicles and a waiting time display. But members were worried about the steep slope to the department's entrance, which could cause difficulties for patients with leg or foot problems.

Overall the CHC said the hospital security was very high profile and the dcor, layout and restaurant were first class. However it found the coffee shop had a poor selection of food, which was highly priced.