Updated 22 March 2022
We carried out this announced focused inspection on 10 February 2022 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 usually ask five key questions, however due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and to reduce time spent on site, only the following three questions were asked:
• Is it safe?
• Is it effective?
• Is it well-led?
These questions form the framework for the areas we look at during the inspection.
Our findings were:
- The dental clinic appeared to be visibly clean and well-maintained.
- The practice had infection control procedures which reflected published guidance.
- Staff knew how to deal with medical emergencies. Appropriate medicines and life-saving equipment were available.
- 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 practice had staff recruitment procedures which reflected current legislation.
- 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.
- Staff provided preventive care and supported patients to ensure better oral health.
- The appointment system took account of patients’ needs.
- There was effective leadership and a culture of continuous improvement.
- Staff felt involved and supported and worked as a team.
- Staff and patients were asked for feedback about the services provided.
- Complaints were dealt with positively and efficiently.
- The dental clinic had information governance arrangements.
Background
Alba Dental Care is in Braintree, Essex and provides NHS and private dental care and treatment for adults and children.
The practice is on the first floor of a high street building and is accessed by a flight of stairs. There are grip rails on either side of the stairs to support some access for people with reduced mobility, people who use wheelchairs are directed to other local practices with level access. Car parking spaces, including dedicated parking for people with disabilities, are available in pay and display car parks near the practice. The practice has made some adjustments to support patients with additional needs.
The dental team includes four dentists, five dental nurses including two trainee dental nurses, one dental hygienist, one dental therapist and one administrator. The practice has three treatment rooms.
During the inspection we spoke with three dentists, four dental nurses, and the administrator. We looked at practice policies and procedures and other records about how the service is managed.
The practice is open:
Monday from 8.30am to 5.30pm.
Tuesday from 9am to 6pm.
Wednesday 8.30am to 5.30pm.
Thursday from 9am to 6pm.
Friday from 8.30am to 5.30pm.