The Care Quality Commission
  • Dentist
  • Dentist

King Gaigher & Chastell

Queen Anne House, 2A St Andrew Street, Hertford, Hertfordshire, SG14 1JA (01992) 583220

Provided and run by:
St Andrews Street Dental Practice Partners

All Inspections

During an assessment under our new approach

We carried out this on-site announced assessment on 12 August 2024. We found the practice had met the regulations. The practice had systems to manage risks and recruitment procedures reflected current legislation and there was effective leadership and a culture of continuous improvement. Infection control procedures generally followed published guidance. Patients’ care and treatment was provided in line with current guidance and patients were treated with dignity and respect. At the time of our assessment, patients could access care, support and treatment when required. King Gaigher and Chastell is in Hertford and provides NHS and private dental care and treatment for adults and children. At the time of our assessment, the dental team included 7 dentists, 4 dental hygienists, 2 qualified dental nurses, 3 trainee dental nurses, 1 practice manager, 2 receptionists and 2 support staff. The practice had 6 treatment rooms. During the assessment we spoke with 2 dentists, 2 dental nurses, 1 dental hygienist, 2 receptionists, 1 support worker who was responsible for decontamination, 1 safety and quality specialist and the practice manager.

5 February 2014

During a routine inspection

When we inspected King Gaigher and Chastell on 05 February 2014 we found that people were provided with information about their treatment and they were asked for their consent. One person told us, '[The dentist] gave me all the different options; dentures, bridge or an implant, and gave me lots of information about each. I had to sign a consent form and the dentist signed it too.'

People's needs were assessed and treatment was planned and delivered in line with those individual needs for both private and NHS treatment. One person said, '[The dentist] asked me lots of questions about my [other medical condition] and made lots of notes about it.'

Arrangements were in place with a neighbouring practice to enable people to receive treatment where they might not be able to use the stairs.

The provider had suitable procedures in place to manage medical emergencies.

The transport, cleaning, sterilisation and storage of instruments was in accordance with 'best practice' set out in the Department of Health (DH) guidance on decontamination.

Staff members were supported by a range of training and development opportunities. Staff also took part in monthly practice meetings and received annual appraisals.

People were asked for their feedback about the service and reported a positive experience. One person we spoke with said, 'I have not been asked to complete a survey but [dentist] always asks me if I have any feedback or comments about my treatment but I never have.'

The provider routinely carried out as range of audits to ensure they operated safe systems and procedures, such as an infection control audit and a records audit.