A controversial out-of-hours GP service which was criticised over the death of a baby has made significant improvements.

According to a report published by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), Harmoni provides care that is “safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led”.

The new findings show a major step forward for the service.

Last year inspectors found the private healthcare firm was failing to respond to a quarter of urgent calls due to staff shortages.

It had also come under fire following the death of seven-week-old Axel Peanberg King, who stopped breathing after allegedly being sent to the back of the queue at Harmoni’s out-of-hours clinic at the Whittington Hospital, in Magdala Avenue, Archway.

An inspection carried out this month stated: “It was evident that since the last inspection in May 2013 the provider had taken clear steps to ensure staffing levels remained constant and met the needs of the service provision.”