Updated 4 May 2022
We carried out this announced focused inspection on 20 April 2022 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 adviser.
To get to the heart of patients’ experiences of care and treatment, we usually ask five key questions, however due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and to reduce time spent on site, only the following three questions were asked:
• Is it safe?
• Is it effective?
• Is it well-led?
These questions form the framework for the areas we look at during the inspection.
Our findings were:
- The dental clinic was visibly 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.
- The practice had systems to help them manage risk to patients and staff.
- 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.
- The clinical staff provided patients’ care and treatment in line with current guidelines.
- Patients were treated with dignity and respect and staff took care to protect their privacy and personal information.
- Staff provided preventive care and supported patients to ensure better oral health.
- The appointment system took account of patients’ needs.
- There was effective leadership and a culture of continuous improvement.
- Staff felt involved and 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.
Background
Cornmarket Dental Practice is in Oxford and provides NHS and private dental care and treatment for adults and children.
The practice is based on the third floor. A passenger lift is available for people who find stairs a barrier but he lift is not accessible to wheelchair users due to its size.
Car parking spaces, including dedicated parking for disabled people, are available near the practice. The practice has made adjustments to support patients with hearing and sight loss.
The dental team includes five dentists, one specialist, five dental nurses, one dental hygienist, one dental therapist and two receptionists. The practice has four treatment rooms.
During the inspection we spoke with three dentists, two dental nurses, one dental hygienist and two receptionists.
We looked at practice policies and procedures and other records about how the service is managed.
The practice is open:
- Monday 8:00am – 5:00pm
- Tuesday 8:00am – 5:00pm
- Wednesday 8:00am – 5:00pm
- Thursday 8:00am – 5:00pm
- Friday 8:00am – 4:30pm