Letter from the Chief Inspector of General Practice
We carried out an announced comprehensive inspection at 8.30am on 28 April 2016. Overall the practice is rated as good.
Our key findings across all the areas we inspected were as follows:
- There was an open and transparent approach to safety and an effective system in place for reporting and recording significant events.
- Risks to patients were assessed and well managed although actions highlighted in the practices’ legionella and fire risk assessments had not been completed
- Staff assessed patients’ needs and delivered care in line with current evidence based guidance. Staff had been trained to provide them with the skills, knowledge and experience to deliver effective care and treatment.
- Patients said they were treated with compassion, dignity and respect and they were involved in their care and decisions about their treatment.
- Information about services and how to complain was available and easy to understand. Improvements were made to the quality of care as a result of complaints and concerns.
- Patients said they found it easy to make an appointment and there was continuity of care, with urgent appointments available the same day. However, some patients said it was often difficult to get an appointment with a preferred GP.
- The practice had adequate facilities and was equipped to treat patients and meet their needs although some patients said the practice was in need of an upgrade.
- There was a clear leadership structure and staff felt supported by management. The practice proactively sought feedback from staff and patients, which it acted on.
- The provider was aware of and complied with the requirements of the duty of candour.
The areas where the provider should make improvement are:
- Ensure actions highlighted in the legionella and fire risk assessments are completed.
- Develop a formal strategy to deliver the practice vision.
Professor Steve Field (CBE FRCP FFPH FRCGP)
Chief Inspector of General Practice