Updated 1 May 2024
We carried out this announced on-site assessment on 29 October 2024. We found the practice had not met all regulations. There was ineffective leadership and culture of continuous improvement. Improvements were needed to the systems for managing risks. Recruitment procedures although reflected current legislation, were not consistently followed. However, 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. Ewood House Dental Surgery is part of Gensmile, a dental group provider. The practice is in Blackburn in Lancashire and provides NHS and private dental care and treatment for adults and children. There was ramp access to the practice and car parking spaces, were available near the practice. The practice had 7 treatment rooms. During the assessment we spoke with 3 clinicians, 2 dental nurses and the practice manager. The group’s compliance manager was also at the assessment. The provider was not complying with Regulation 17. Full details of the regulation the provider was not meeting are within the quality statement section of the report. We have asked the provider for an action plan in response to the concerns found at this assessment.