We carried out an announced inspection of The Hedges Medical Practice on 10 July 2014. This was a comprehensive inspection under Section 60 of the Health and Social Care Act (2008) as part of our regulatory functions.
Our key findings were as follows;
- Patients reported good access to the practice. Appointments, including those required out of normal working hours or in an emergency were available.
-
Systems were in place to identify and respond to concerns about the safeguarding of adults and children. All staff demonstrated a good awareness of the processes.
-
Systems were in place to maintain the appropriate standards of cleanliness and protect people from the risks of infection. The practice was clean.
- We saw patients receiving respectful treatment from staff. Patients felt that their privacy and dignity was respected by staff.
However, there were also areas of practice where the provider needs to make improvements.
The provider should:
- Ensure that reasonable adjustments are made for patients with a disability so that they can access all the practice accommodation.
- Ensure that telephone access is improved for patients so that they can always get through to the practice via the telephone.
Professor Steve Field
CBE FRCP FFPH FRCGP
Chief Inspector of General Practice