13/06/2022
During an inspection looking at part of the service
We carried out this announced focused inspection on 13 June 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 was 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 displayed a positive and open approach to helping patients and supporting the local community during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- 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.
- The dental clinic had information governance arrangements.
Background
Swinton Dental Practice is in Mexborough, South Yorkshire and provides NHS and private dental care and treatment for adults and children.
There is ramp access to the practice for people who use wheelchairs and those with pushchairs. Car parking spaces are available near the practice. The practice has made reasonable adjustments to support patients with additional needs.
The dental team includes three dentists, four dental nurses (one is a trainee dental nurse), one dental hygiene therapist and one dedicated receptionist. The team is supported by a practice manager. The practice has three treatment rooms.
On the day of inspection, the compliance lead was also present to support the team.
During the inspection we spoke with two dentists, two dental nurses, the receptionist, practice manager and the compliance lead. We looked at practice policies and procedures and other records about how the service is managed.
The practice is open:
Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 9.00am – 5.30pm and Tuesday 9.00am – 6.30pm.