- Dentist
Howard Stean - Mortlake Road Kew
Report from 1 October 2024 assessment
Contents
Judgements
Our view of the service
We carried out this on-site, short notice assessment on 5 November 2024. We found the practice had met regulations. 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 and there was a culture of continuous improvement. Improvements were required to ensure the premises were well maintained and recruitment procedures reflected current legislation. The practice took immediate action and were responsive to concerns found during our assessment. Howard Stean – Mortlake Road Kew is in the London Borough of Richmond-upon Thames and provides private dental care and treatment for a small selection of long-standing adult patients. There was level access to the practice treatment room and car parking spaces, including dedicated parking for disabled people, were available near the practice. The practice had 1 treatment room. During the assessment we spoke with the principal dentist and the practice administrator.
People's experience of this service
During the week after our onsite assessment, we asked the practice to encourage patients to share their views of the service with us. We received feedback from 3 patients. On the day of our assessment, we spoke with 2 patients. Patient feedback provided a positive view of the dental team and care provided by the practice. Comments included, ‘I have been given solid, professional advice to resolve a problem that no other dentist could fix’. Another patient said, ‘I have always received the utmost professional, friendly and pain free treatment in a relaxed and caring atmosphere. I have built a relationship of trust, and I am always confident that I am being looked after with the best care and attention.’ Patients commented positively about the standards of cleanliness. One patient told us, ‘The surgery always appears well equipped and hygienic.’ 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. One patient told us that they were able to get an appointment over a weekend to fix a broken tooth. 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 and valued the professional advice given to them. One patient told us, ‘Howard has always been honest and open with me about my dental care.’ The practice stored patient feedback within a compliments and complaints folder. We were told this was reviewed and where suggestions had been made, appropriate action would be taken.