4 June 2014
During a routine inspection
Is the service safe?
People told us they felt safe. Systems were in place to help the provider and the staff team learn from events such as accidents and incidents, complaints or concerns. This reduced the risks to people and helped the service to continually improve. The provider had policies and procedures in relation to the Mental Capacity Act 2005 (MCA), safeguarding children and vulnerable adults. The dental team at the practice had been trained in recognising signs of abuse and reporting concerns to local statutory agencies. This helped to ensure that people's safety needs were met.
Is the service effective?
People's dental and oral health needs were assessed in partnership with them to allow them to make informed decisions about treatment options. The quality of record keeping was good allowing evaluation through a clear history of each person's dental treatments and decisions leading to such treatment. This enabled the staff team to learn and improve practice.
Is the service caring?
People's preferences and interests had been recorded and health risk indicators were checked at each appointment to ensure people received suitable treatment. People told us the staff were caring.
Is the service responsive?
Daily urgent treatment slots were available, which ensured people received appropriate care in a timely way. People told us they could access appointments when they needed them.
Is the service well-led?
The practice had a quality assurance system, which promoted improvement of the service for the people using it. Staff told us they were clear about their roles and responsibilities. Staff had a good understanding of the quality assurance processes that were in place and used this information to improve their practice. This helped to ensure that people received a good quality service at all times.