Updated 7 December 2022
We carried out this announced comprehensive inspection on 16 November 2022 under section 60 of the Health and Social Care Act 2008 as part of our regulatory functions. We planned the inspection to check whether the registered practice was meeting the legal requirements in the Health and Social Care Act 2008 and associated regulations. The inspection was led by a Care Quality Commission, (CQC), inspector who was supported by a specialist dental adviser.
To get to the heart of patients’ experiences of care and treatment we always ask the following 5 questions:
• Is it safe?
• Is it effective?
• Is it caring?
• Is it responsive to people’s needs?
• Is it well-led?
These questions form the framework for the areas we look at during the inspection.
Our findings were:
- The dental clinic was visibly clean and well-maintained.
- The practice had infection control procedures which reflected published guidance.
- Staff knew how to deal with medical emergencies. Appropriate medicines and life-saving equipment were available.
- The practice had systems to help them manage risk to patients and staff.
- Safeguarding processes were in place and staff knew their responsibilities for safeguarding vulnerable adults and children.
- The practice had staff recruitment procedures which reflected current legislation.
- The clinical staff provided patients’ care and treatment in line with current guidelines.
- Patients were treated with dignity and respect and staff took care to protect their privacy and personal information.
- Staff provided preventive care and supported patients to ensure better oral health.
- The appointment system took account of patients’ needs.
- There was effective leadership and a culture of continuous improvement.
- Complaints were dealt with positively and efficiently.
- The dental clinic had information governance arrangements.
Background
My Dentist – Victoria Square – St Helens is in St Helens, Merseyside and provides largely NHS and some private dental care and treatment for adults and children.
The practice is accessed from street level by 2 flights of stairs. This means it is not accessible for people who use wheelchairs and those with reduced mobility. Car parking spaces, including dedicated parking for disabled people, are available near the practice in a pay and display car park. The practice has made adjustments to support patients with additional needs. For example, there is a portable hearing loop available for those with hearing difficulties.
The dental team includes 2 dentists, 3 dental nurses, one of whom is a trainee, and a practice receptionist. The practice has 4 treatment rooms.
During the inspection we spoke with the principal dentist, 2 dental nurses, and a receptionist. We looked at practice policies and procedures and other records about how the service is managed.
The practice is open 8.30am to 5pm Monday to Friday and on Saturday by appointment only.