The CQC report upgraded maternity services at the Royal Sussex County Hospital from “inadequate” to “requires improvement”, after inspectors found “several improvements”.
But it added more work was needed to ensure services were “fully effective” in meeting the needs of women and babies.
“People using the service told us staff treated them with compassion and kindness,” said the CQC’s Ms Williams.
“We observed strong teamwork between doctors, midwives, and other healthcare professionals.
“However, we also found new concerns,” she continued.
Issues identified with maternity services included the design and environment of the maternity unit and that there was only one obstetric theatre.
Dr Heeps welcomed the CQC’s recognition of the progress made at Brighton’s maternity department.
“While the service has moved up a level overall, we totally accept that we need to go further,” he said.
“We are continually talking with families and staff to understand what more we can do.”