- Dentist
Together Dental Colchester (Queen Street)
Report from 27 December 2024 assessment
Contents
Judgements
Our view of the service
We carried out this announced, on-site assessment on 15 January 2025. We found the practice had met regulations. Recruitment procedures reflected current legislation and there was effective leadership and a culture of continuous improvement. Patients were treated with dignity and respect and at the time of our assessment, could access care, support and treatment when required. Patients’ care and treatment was provided in line with current guidance and infection control procedures were in place. The practice had systems to manage risks. Together Dental Colchester Queen Street is part of Together Dental a dental group provider. The practice is in Colchester, Essex and provides NHS dental care and treatment for adults and children. The practice also has a contract to provide NHS Intermediate Minor Oral Surgery Services (IMOS), and provides emergency appointments on alternate Saturdays and Sundays under the NHS 111 scheme. There was step-free access to the practice and car parking spaces, including dedicated parking for disabled people, were available near the practice. The practice had 4 treatment rooms. During the assessment we spoke with 1 dentist, 2 dental nurses, 1 receptionist and the practice manager. We also spoke with 1 regional manager and 2 compliance managers.
People's experience of this service
Two weeks before our on-site assessment, we asked the practice to encourage patients to share their views of the service with us. We received feedback from 10 patients. Patient feedback provided a positive view of the dental team and care provided by the practice. Patients commented positively about the standards of cleanliness. They told us they were able to book appointments within an acceptable timescale for their needs and that they had enough time during their appointment without feeling rushed. Patients said they were given clear information to help them make an informed choice about their treatment and any associated costs. They were involved in decisions about their care. When they were prescribed medicines, patients felt that sufficient information was given. Patients also felt they were supported to maintain their oral health and were provided with appropriate information and resources. We reviewed online patient feedback. Patients expressed high levels of satisfaction with the treatment they received. Comments included: ‘Excellent practice’, ‘Helpful and professional staff’ and ‘They made me feel at ease’. The practice shared patient feedback with the team. We were told this was reviewed and where suggestions had been made, appropriate action would be taken.