Updated 28 September 2023
We carried out this announced focused inspection on 22 September 2023 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 practice 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 always ask five key questions:
- Is it safe?
- Is it effective?
- Is it caring?
- Is it responsive?
- Is it well-led?
These questions form the framework for the areas we look at during the inspection.
Our findings were:
- The dental clinic was visibly clean and well-maintained.
- The practice had infection control procedures which reflected published guidance, although we noted the ultrasonic bath had not been fully tested to ensure its safe operation.
- Staff knew how to deal with medical emergencies and appropriate medicines and life-saving equipment were available.
- Staff had access to a range of specialist dental equipment to enhance the delivery of care.
- The practice had systems to help them manage risk to patients and staff.
- Safeguarding processes were in place and staff knew their responsibilities for safeguarding vulnerable adults and children.
- The clinical staff provided patients’ care and treatment in line with current guidelines.
- Patients were treated with dignity and respect and staff took care to protect their privacy and personal information.
- There was effective leadership and a culture of continuous improvement.
- Staff felt involved and supported and worked as a team.
- Complaints were dealt with positively and efficiently.
Background
Hitchin Dental Care provides private dental care for adults and children.
The practice has made reasonable adjustments to support patients with additional needs. There is level access to the premises for people who use wheelchairs, ground floor treatment rooms and a fully accessible toilet.
The dental team includes 4 dentists, 3 visiting specialists, 3 dental hygienists, 6 dental nurses, a practice manager and 2 reception staff. The practice has 6 treatment rooms.
During the inspection we spoke with the practice manager, a dentist, 2 dental nurses and reception staff. We looked at practice policies and procedures and other records about how the service is managed.
The practice is open on Mondays to Wednesdays from 9am to 5.45pm, on Thursdays from 8am to 4.45pm, on Fridays from 8am to 1.45pm, and on alternate Saturdays from 9am to 1.45pm.
There were areas where the provider could make improvements. They should:
- Ensure regular soil and protein residue checks are undertaken on the practice’s ultrasonic bath.