- Dentist
Ramsbottom Dental Care
Report from 21 October 2024 assessment
Contents
Judgements
Our view of the service
We carried out this announced, onsite assessment on 12 November 2024. We found the practice had not met all regulations. Recruitment checks had not been carried out in accordance with relevant legislation to enable them to employ suitable staff, including agency and locum staff. However, 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. There was effective leadership and a culture of continuous improvement. Patients were treated with dignity and respect and at the time of our assessment, could access care, support and treatment when required. The practice is in Ramsbottom and provides 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 near the practice. The practice had 5 treatment rooms. The total number of staff was 18. During the assessment we spoke with 3 dentists, 3 dental nurses, 2 receptionists and the practice manager.
People's experience of this service
Three weeks before our onsite assessment, we asked the practice to encourage patients to share their views of the service with us. We received feedback from 12 patients. On the day of our assessment, we saw online patient feedback from a further 62 patients. Patient feedback provided a positive view of the dental team and care provided by the practice. Comments included, “Lovely practice, very friendly and knowledgeable staff. Made to feel at ease during treatment”, “The clinic is extremely smart and clean. I cannot fault one single thing”, “The surgery is always welcoming, whilst being spotlessly clean and spacious” and “Always welcoming and explain any necessary procedures thoroughly. I have constantly found the care to be professional, caring and friendly”. Patients commented positively about the standards of cleanliness. 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. 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. Patients told us that when they were prescribed medicines, sufficient information was given. Patients told us that they were supported to maintain their oral health and were provided with appropriate information and resources. 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.