England’s Chief Inspector of General Practice has welcomed improvements in the quality of services provided by RAF Scampton Medical Centre in Lincoln.
In May 2017, inspectors identified concerns with regard to the leadership and safety of the practice. As a result the practice was given an overall rating of Inadequate.
The latest inspection which took place in February 2018 concluded the practice had addressed all areas of concern. It has now been awarded an overall rating of Good across all five areas for being safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led.
RAF Scampton Medical Centre provides routine primary health care to a population of approximately 400 service personnel and reservists. In addition, the practice provides occupational medicals and medicine, aviation medicine and emergency airfield cover. Women’s health and travel medicine are also provided at the practice.
A full report of the latest inspection has been published on our website.
Inspectors found that since the original inspection the practice had taken significant steps to improve leadership, with a focus on improving the quality and safety of its services to patients.
Examples of key findings and improvements, included:
- Staff said the leadership of the service had improved. They now felt engaged, supported and valued by management.
- Results from the defence medical services patient survey showed patients were treated with compassion, dignity and respect and were involved in their care and decisions about their treatment.
- A proactive approach to quality improvement, including a programme of clinical audit had been developed to drive improvements for patients.
- A system was in place for managing incidents and significant events. Staff understood their responsibility in relation to using the system.
- Clinical care for patients was person-centred and well managed. Patient feedback suggested the care was of a high standard.
- Effective medical cover was in place on weekdays between the times when the practice closed and NHS 111 commenced providing medical cover.
Professor Steve Field, Chief Inspector of General Practice, said:
“It was disappointing that our inspection last year highlighted concerns, particularly in relation to whether the practice was safe and well-led.
“I am very pleased to see that since then, the practice has made significant progress, which has led to a much better service for patients resulting in a new rating of Good across all areas.
“During the latest inspection we found the service had significantly strengthened their leadership and management and had taken a proactive team approach towards making and sustaining improvements in quality.
“The practice had developed a clear vision and strategy regarding the delivery of high quality care to promote good outcomes for patients.
“There was now a clear staffing structure in place and staff were aware of their role and accountabilities. Staff had the skills, knowledge and experience to deliver effective care and treatment.
“Patients were supported to live healthier lifestyles through a proactive approach to health promotion and wellbeing.
“It is clear that the practice took our findings seriously, seeking external advice to help it improve and working hard to implement the necessary changes. All of the staff should be extremely proud of what they have achieved and I applaud the dedication and commitment they have shown to improving the care of their patients.”
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