Archived: The Doctors Laboratory - Whitfield Street

This inspection was prompted by a complaint received by the Care Quality Commission on samples being lost and inaccurate results being provided. People who use the service told us that it had improved since the beginning of the year. One person told us that they had 'low confidence' in the provider. This was relating to lost samples and errors in reporting results which occurred during the transition period.

We found that the provider met needs of the people who use the service. The provider took account of published research and guidance and had arrangements for dealing with foreseeable emergencies.

The service was provided in clean and hygienic environment. There were systems in place for assessing and preventing the risk of a health care associated infection.

There was suitable equipment available for the purpose of carrying out the regulated activity and the equipment was maintained and used correctly.

Staff had been supported well in performing their job.

We found that the provider had systems in place which helped to prevent incidents and protect staff and people who use the service from risk.

We were told that people using the service were able to discuss details of the tests directly with medical staff at The Doctors Laboratory.

We viewed a range of policy and governance documents and spoke to four members of staff. Staff told us that they thought there were good governance systems and structures in place and that learning was ongoing.

Documentation was detailed and up to date with evidence of ongoing monitoring and reviewing. The provider had robust systems in place to minimise errors and the likelihood for inaccurate results.

Staff were suitably qualified and were supported adequately.