A CENTRE that helps people with lymphedema has been praised in its latest report from the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

Kendal Lymphology Centre was awarded ‘Outstanding’ by the CQC following an inspection in May.

Inspectors commended the centre for its infection control, safeguarding, qualifications and training of staff, pain management of patients as well as emotional support for them and their families and care of patients-including the way the service collaborated with companies to provide solutions for patients undergoing certain treatments.

This included working with a national paint company to provide small rollers for facial massage to reduce swelling to help patients with head and neck cancer.

The service also worked with a compression company who funded a bra guide that the centre developed so breast cancer patients could more easily find bras to fit them should they have accumulation of fluid following surgery.

Inspectors said in the report: “Outcomes for patients were positive, consistent, and met or exceeded expectations, such as national standards.

“The service produced three case studies for commissioners and patients to highlight the health benefits of being treated at the clinic.

“All three case studies showed improved patient outcomes over a shorted time period than previous treatment received elsewhere.

“Staff were actively engaged in activities to monitor and improve quality and outcomes.

“Evidence based techniques and technologies were used to support the delivery of high-quality care.”

Denise Hardy, nurse consultant at the centre, said the team was ‘delighted’.

“Kendal Lymphology Centre was founded in 2005 to provide assessment and treatment for lymphoedema (swelling that occurs in parts of the body because of damage/overload to the lymphatic system),” she said.

“With funding provided by contracts through Morecambe Bay Hospital Trust and Morecambe Bay Clinical Commissioning Group, the clinic is regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and as such we have to demonstrate that they are providing a service that is well led, caring, safe, effective, and responsive to people’s needs.

“Working tirelessly through the Covid pandemic the team were delighted to be awarded with an “OUTSTANDING” rating following their recent CQC inspection.

“A great achievement and one that was greeted with much accolade from patients who attend.”

Phyl Dixon, one of the clinic’s first ever patients, said: “I consider myself very fortunate in knowing the staff at KLC.

“My treatment was second to none, so much so my lymphoedema leg has reduced by 80 per cent.

“The staff have been excellent in manner and expertise.

“Congratulations on achieving this “outstanding” award, it is well deserved.”