St Andrew's Dental Practice

Judgements

• Safe

  Regulations met

• Effective

  Regulations met

• Caring

  Regulations met

• Responsive

  Regulations met

• Well-led

  Regulations met

Our view of the service

We found the practice had met all regulations. Recruitment procedures reflected current legislation and there was effective leadership and a culture of continuous improvement. Patients were treated with dignity and respect and at the time of our assessment, could access care, support and treatment when required. Patients’ care and treatment was provided in line with current guidance and infection control procedures were in place. The practice had systems to manage risks. St Andrews Dental Practice is located on the first floor of Billericay Health Centre in Billericay, Essex and provides NHS and private dental care and treatment for adults and children. There was step free and lift access to the practice and car parking spaces, including dedicated parking for disabled people, were available outside the practice. The practice had 5 treatment rooms. During the assessment we spoke with 1 dentist, 5 dental nurses including 1 trainee dental nurse, 1 dental hygienist, 2 receptionists and the practice manager.

People's experience of this service

Patient feedback provided a positive view of the dental team and care provided by the practice. Patients commented positively about the standards of cleanliness. Patients felt able to book appointments within an acceptable timescale for their needs and said they had enough time during their appointment without feeling rushed. Patients told us they were given clear information to help them make an informed choice about their treatment and any associated costs. They were involved in decisions about their care. Patients told us that when they were prescribed medicines, sufficient information was given. Patients told us that they were supported to maintain their oral health and were provided with appropriate information and resources. The practice shared patient feedback with the team. We were told this was reviewed and where suggestions had been made, appropriate action would be taken.