Dr Male and Partners based at Thornbury Health Centre is a semi-rural practice which provides primary care services to patients living in Thornbury, South Gloucestershire and surrounding areas, Monday to Friday during working hours. In addition there are a range of clinics for all age groups and specialist nursing treatment and support.
As part of our inspection we spoke with other organisations, such as; the South Gloucestershire Clinical Commissioning Group, the local Healthwatch and other healthcare providers to share what they knew. We talked with patients and staff.
The practice used a range of information to identify risks and improve quality regarding patient safety. They had a system for reporting, recording and monitoring significant events. Patients were protected from the risk of abuse. The practice had systems which recognised and supported patients who were at risk of abuse. Patients were treated by suitably qualified staff. Patients were cared for in a safe environment. The practice had the appropriate equipment, medicines and procedures to manage foreseeable patient emergencies. The practice was well maintained. Patients were protected from the risks of unsafe medicine management procedures. Patients were cared for in an environment which was clean and reflected good infection control practices.
The practice met nationally recognised quality standards (the Quality and Outcomes Framework - QOF) for improving patient care and maintaining quality. For example, the management of patients with long term conditions comparing favourably with other practices in the area. Patient care was improved by the regular monitoring of treatment. Patients’ rights were protected with regards to the consent process. Patients' care was managed by the practice and other healthcare professionals. The practice worked with other primary care providers to co-ordinate care. The practice had opted out of providing out of hours care. This was provided by another Out of Hours provider. Patients had access to a range of health promotion information to improve their health.
Patients we spoke with were very satisfied with their care and treatment. This was confirmed by results from the GP patient survey which demonstrated 98% of respondents from the practice had confidence and trust in their GP. Patient privacy was respected and they were involved in their treatment decisions.
Patients were generally able to get an appointment when they needed it. However. there were areas for minor change for example, appointments running late. The practice had taken steps to address the issues. Patients with disabilities had the support and resources to promote independence.
Patients were cared for by staff who were aware of their roles and responsibilities for managing risk and improving quality. Staff told us they worked well as a team and were well supported to undertake their role. GPs and nurses were encouraged to update and develop their clinical knowledge and skills. The practice used a range of approaches to collect patient feedback. Patients' views on the service were listened to.
The practice supported older patients and patients with long term conditions by offering advice and support through specialist clinics, screening and evidence based information. The practice supported mothers, children and young people by working with other healthcare providers. The practice supported the working age population and those recently retired by offering a flexible appointment system. The practice supported patients in vulnerable circumstances by the early identification and protection of patients at risk. The practice supported patients experiencing poor mental health by regular monitoring of their treatment and support needs.
Please note that when referring to information throughout this report, this relates to the most recent information available to the Care quality Commission (CQC) at that time.