The NHS organisations responsible for commissioning health care services in Suffolk have been rated highly in a national assessment, demonstrating a dramatic turn around in performance in the space of a year.

In the latest annual appraisals by NHS England, Ipswich and East Suffolk Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) was classed ‘outstanding’ and West Suffolk CCG was deemed ‘good’. In 2015/16, both groups were rated ‘requires improvement’.

Of the 15 CCGs in the East of England, only Ipswich and East Suffolk is considered ‘outstanding’.

Dr Ed Garratt, chief officer for both CCGs, said: “This is an incredible result for the CCGs and undoubtedly gives people confidence that their local services are performing well.

“The CCGs have always made it a priority to listen to the local population on how they want their NHS shaped and we work in partnership with the health and social care sector to ensure the best of care.”

He added: “Following last year’s ratings everyone at the CCGs was determined to make the required improvements. We have successfully achieved this ambition.”