Archived: Ealing Dental Specialists

At this inspection we looked at the systems in place for managing the quality and safety of the service, and infection control. A practice manager and a clinical manager had been appointed to oversee the day to day management of the service.

We looked at 'patient' surveys which had been completed by people on the request of the surgery; these indicated that people were satisfied with the service they were receiving. We saw that the 'patient' surveys had improved and now gave more detail and quality information about people's experience of treatment. Systems were in place for regular audits of the service and investigating complaints.

On the day of the inspection we found the practice to be clean and saw that a decontamination process was in place for dental instruments.

During this inspection we reviewed the progress Ealing Dental Specialists had made to meet these essential standards. The provider had ensured staff were receiving appropriate training and professional development. A recruitment and selection policy was in place.

We received information from NHS North West London with regards to a visit made to Ealing Dental Specialists on 2nd May 2013 by a Dental Practice Advisor. We were informed that as a result of this visit practice relating to the recruitment of workers and supporting workers had been addressed.

The registered manager was not available during this inspection and we were informed that he would not be available for a period of six months or more. An interim manager had not been appointed at the time of the inspection.

We spoke with children and their parents who commented that the dentist explained things properly. We were told that information was given in a calm manner 'so you do not panic' and the dentist explains what he is going to do at each stage. Children were assessed by the dentist and a treatment plan was given to them.

Ealing Dental Specialists had information in place for the protection of vulnerable children and adults.

The surgery was clean and safe and systems were in place to audit and monitor cleanliness and infection control.

The provider had not taken steps to ensure that an effective recruitment procedure was in place.

The provider had not taken steps to ensure that staff training was monitored and up to date.