CQC demands dentist improves services

4 January 2011

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has told Warbreck Moor Dental Practice in Aintree, Liverpool, that it is not meeting essential standards and must improve.  

CQC inspectors visited Warbreck Moor after major concerns were identified at the provider’s other dental practice in Congleton, Cheshire.

At the recent inspection at Warbreck Moor, CQC found the provider had not carried out criminal record checks on staff and there was no evidence to show staff had had first-aid training. There was also no evidence staff had had safeguarding training, meaning vulnerable patients were not protected from harm.

Inspectors also found the fire-exit route was difficult to access, patient records were not stored securely and medication was not regularly checked or appropriately stored. Some medication was found stored in a dirty and stained fridge alongside food and drink.

However, CQC inspectors have now received a satisfactory action plan from the provider detailing how standards will improve and will carry out another inspection to check progress.

CQC interim director for the North West, Debbie Westhead, said:

“We found significant non-compliance with essential standards at this practice, which is concerning, and we’re confident any patients using this service would share our concerns.

“Dental providers have only recently come under regulation by the CQC and it is cases such as these that show the value of regulation.

“The provider must improve or may face enforcement action, which could include a fine or a notice of proposal to cancel its registration.

“By law, providers of certain adult social care and health care services have a responsibility to make sure they are meeting essential standards of quality and safety. These are the standards everyone should be able to expect when they receive care.”

Ends

For further information please contact the CQC press office on 0207 448 9401 or out of hours on 07917 232 143.

Notes to editors