Updated 16 February 2023
We carried out this announced comprehensive inspection on 24 January 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.
- Staff knew how to deal with medical emergencies. Appropriate medicines and life-saving equipment were available.
- Safeguarding processes were in place and staff knew their responsibilities for safeguarding vulnerable adults and children.
- The practice had staff recruitment procedures which reflected current legislation.
- Clinical staff provided patients’ care and treatment in line with current guidelines.
- Patients were treated with dignity and respect. Staff took care to protect patients’ privacy and personal information.
- Staff provided preventive care and supported patients to ensure better oral health.
- The appointment system worked efficiently to respond to patients’ needs.
- The frequency of appointments was agreed between the dentist and the patient, giving due regard to National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines.
- 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.
- Complaints were dealt with positively and efficiently.
- The practice had information governance arrangements.
- Overall, the practice had systems to manage risks for patients, equipment and the premises. However, improvements could be made to the management of risks associated with substances hazardous to health, and risks to staff.
Background
The provider is part of a corporate group, BUPA Dental Care. Overall, they have 469 practices and this report is about Gateshead Lobley Hill Partnership.
The practice is in Gateshead in Tyne and Wear and provides NHS and private dental care and treatment for adults and children.
The practice is not accessible for people who use wheelchairs; however, patients are directed to alternative local practices. The practice is located close to local transport routes and car parking spaces are available near the practice. The practice has made some adjustments to support patients with additional requirements.
The dental team includes 3 dentists, 5 dental nurses, 2 of whom are trainees, 1 dental hygienist, 2 interim practice managers and 2 receptionists. The practice has 4 treatment rooms, although 3 are currently in use.
During the inspection we spoke with 2 dentists, 1 trainee dental nurse, 1 dental nurse and the 2 interim practice managers. We looked at practice policies, procedures and other records to assess how the service is managed.
The practice is open:
Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 8am to 5pm
Tuesday from 8am to 6pm
Thursday from 8am to 7pm
There were areas where the provider could make improvements. They should:
- Take action to ensure that all clinical staff have adequate immunity for vaccine preventable infectious diseases.