A survey of 1,265 National Health Service (NHS) sites out today found 84 per cent were scored either 'excellent' or 'good' for their environmental state.

However, 17 of the sites inspected were rated 'poor' or 'unacceptable' on at least one category.

The figures have been issued today by the National Patient Safety Agency (NPSA) in its annual Patient Environment Action Team (PEAT) assessments.

The inspections look at sites with more than ten inpatient beds, looking at environment, food, and privacy and dignity.

Chief executive of the NPSA Martin Fletcher said: "Every hospital in England should aspire to the level of the best – this is what patients want from the NHS.

"The number of sites that have achieved this is the highest ever yet and I would like to congratulate everyone for making this happen."

Some 94 per cent of sites achieved an excellent or good rating for levels of privacy and dignity, with 95 per cent scoring well for quality, choice and availability of food for patients.

Mr Fletcher added: "Overall, whilst these findings are encouraging, there's still work to be done. This data will help trusts to further improve the experiences patients have while in NHS-care."
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