The Vernon Dental Practice

Judgements

• Safe

  Regulations met

• Effective

  Regulations met

• Caring

  Regulations met

• Responsive

  Regulations met

• Well-led

  Regulations met

Our view of the service

We carried out this on-site, announced assessment on 22 July 2024. We found the practice had met regulations. The practice had systems to manage risks and the recruitment procedures reflected current legislation. Infection control procedures 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 and there was effective leadership and a culture of continuous improvement. The Vernon Dental Practice is in Hitchin and provides NHS and private dental care and treatment for adults and children. At the time of our assessment, the dental team included 8 dentists, 5 dental nurses, 1 of whom is also the practice manager, 2 trainee dental nurses, 4 dental hygienists, 1 receptionist and 1 housekeeper. The practice had 6 treatment rooms. During the assessment we spoke with 4 dentists, 2 dental nurses and the practice manager.

People's experience of this service

We received feedback from 103 patients. Comments were extremely positive and numerous patients remarked on the high level of cleanliness in the practice, the kind, caring and knowledgeable nature of staff and the ease of making a regular and emergency appointment. Staff gathered feedback from patients and demonstrated a commitment to acting on feedback.