Updated 9 February 2022
We carried out this announced focused inspection on 31 January 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 provider 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 ask the following questions:
• 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 practice appeared to be visibly clean and well-maintained.
- The provider had infection control procedures which reflected published guidance.
- Staff knew how to deal with emergencies. Medicines and life-saving equipment were available, with some omissions.
- The provider had systems to help them manage risk to patients and staff.
- The provider had safeguarding processes and staff knew their responsibilities for safeguarding vulnerable adults and children.
- The provider had staff recruitment procedures which reflected current legislation.
- The clinical staff provided patients’ care and treatment in line with current guidelines.
- Staff provided preventive care and supported patients to ensure better oral health.
- The provider had effective leadership and a culture of continuous improvement.
- Staff felt involved and supported and worked as a team.
- The provider dealt with complaints positively and efficiently.
- The provider had good information governance arrangements; however review was required of the storage of patient dental records in the reception area.
Background
Bedford & Associates Dental Practice is in Wyke, near Bradford and provides NHS and private dental care and treatment for adults and children.
The practice provides step free access for people who use wheelchairs or have mobility needs. Car parking spaces are available on the streets surrounding the practice.
The dental team includes three dentists, six dental nurses, a receptionist and the practice manager.
During the inspection we spoke with two dentists, one dental nurse and the practice manager. We looked at practice policies and procedures and other records about how the service is managed.
The practice is open:
Monday 9am-7pm
Tuesday 8.30am - 5.30pm
Wednesday 8.30am -5.30pm
Thursday 8.30am – 5.30pm
Friday 9.00am – 3.30pm
There were areas where the provider could make improvements. They should:
- Review the storage of patient dental records to comply with General Data Protection Regulation requirements.
- Review the availability of equipment to manage medical emergencies taking into account the guidelines issued by Resuscitation Council (UK) and the General Dental Council.