Updated 1 June 2023
We carried out this announced comprehensive inspection on 23 May 2023 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 advisor.
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 appeared clean and well-maintained.
- The practice had infection control procedures which reflected published guidance.
- The practice had some systems to manage risks for patients, staff, equipment and the premises. We found minor shortfalls in appropriately assessing and mitigating risks in relation to the medicines management.
- Safeguarding processes were in place and staff knew their responsibilities for safeguarding vulnerable adults and children.
- Clinical staff provided patients’ care and treatment in line with current guidelines.
- Staff provided preventive care and supported patients to ensure better oral health.
- There was effective leadership and a culture of continuous improvement.
- Staff felt involved, supported and worked as a team.
- Staff and patients were asked for feedback about the services provided.
- The practice did not undertake adequate Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks for newly employed staff.
Background
Hellesdon Dental Care Practice provides private dental care and treatment for adults and children. In addition to general dentistry, the practice also offers sedation and dental implants for patients.
The practice has made reasonable adjustments to support patients with access requirements including ground floor treatment rooms and a fully accessible toilet.
The dental team includes 4 dentists, 6 dental nurses, 2 dental hygienists, a practice manager and 3 reception staff. The practice has 4 treatment rooms and is in the process of building an additional 2 treatment rooms.
During the inspection we spoke with the principal dentist, 2 dental nurses, and the practice manager. We looked at practice policies, procedures and other records to assess how the service is managed.
The practice is open Mondays to Thursdays from 8.15am to 5pm, and on Fridays form 8.15am to 4.30pm.
There were areas where the provider could make improvements. They should
- Ensure that appropriate DBS checks are completed prior to new staff commencing employment at the practice.
- Improve the practice's protocols for medicines management. For example, implement a stock control system and ensure antibiotics are prescribed according to the latest guidelines.