- Dentist
Merseyside Dental Centre
Report from 15 October 2024 assessment
Contents
Judgements
Our view of the service
We carried out this announced, on-site assessment on 12 November 2024. We found the practice had met regulations all regulations. 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. Recruitment procedures reflected current legislation and there was effective leadership and a culture of continuous improvement. The practice had systems to manage risks. Improvements should be made to ensure any risks identified are acted on promptly. Changes should be made to the auditing protocols to ensure they drive the improvements required as noted on the day. Merseyside Dental Centre is part of A&U Dental Surgeries Ltd, a dental group provider. The practice is in Huyton in Liverpool and provides NHS and private dental care and treatment for adults and children. There was step free access to the practice and car parking spaces, including dedicated parking for disabled people, were available at the practice. The practice had 5 treatment rooms in use. During the assessment we spoke with 3 dentists, 3 dental nurses (including a trainee), and the practice manager. Two of the group’s compliance leads and the clinical director were also at the assessment.
People's experience of this service
Two weeks before our onsite assessment, we asked the practice to encourage patients to share their views of the service with us. We did not receive any feedback from patients. On the day of our assessment, we saw recent patient feedback, which provided a positive view of the dental team and care provided by the practice. Comments included “The staff – reception and nurses, are always warm, friendly and welcoming. It feels personal when visiting, as opposed to just another number. I have recommend [sic] the practice for years”, “Very good service thank you”, “Absolutely brilliant dentist makes you feel so at ease”, “Great dentist and assistant both very experienced and worked well together. Made a tricky procedure look easy and simple.” Patients commented positively about the standards of cleanliness. “… I was also really impressed with the standard and cleanliness of the practice as well.” 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. 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.