Independent ambulance service rated 'inadequate' by watchdog

USC Medical operates in St. Helens

Author: Liam ArrowsmithPublished 5th Aug 2026

An independent ambulance service in St. Helens has been rated inadequate following an inspection by the watchdog.

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) found USC Medical did not have the right systems in place to ensure patients were taken to the right location.

The watchdog carried out an inspection of their transport services in September and October last year after concerns were raised.

It found breaches in relation to safe care and treatment, good management of the service and employing appropriate persons.

The CQC has now taken enforcement action against USC Medical, which said it had since made "substantial improvements".

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