25th February 2015
During a routine inspection
Letter from the Chief Inspector of General Practice
This is the report of findings from our inspection of Dr S Singh's Practice which is registered with the Care Quality Commission to provide primary care services.
We undertook a planned, comprehensive inspection on 25th February 2015 at the practice location. We spoke with patients, staff and the practice management team.
The practice was rated overall as Good. A caring, effective, responsive and well- led service was provided that met the needs of the population it served. However, improvements were needed to ensure the practice was operating safely.
Our key findings were as follows:
- There were systems in place to protect patients from avoidable harm, such as from the risks associated with medicines and infection control. However, improvements were needed in respect of staff recruitment as the recruitment records did not demonstrate that all necessary checks were undertaken to demonstrate suitability for their roles. Improvements were also needed to the systems in place to ensure that checks of electricity systems and water services were carried out.
- Patients care needs were assessed and care and treatment was considered in line with best practice national guidelines. Staff were proactive in promoting good health and referrals were made to other agencies to ensure patients received the treatments they needed.
- Feedback from patients showed they were overall satisfied with the care given by all staff. They felt listened to, treated with dignity and respect and had confidence in the GPs and nurse. Patients felt involved in decision making around their care and treatment.
- The practice planned its services to meet the differing needs of patients. The appointment system allowed good access to the service. The practice encouraged patients to give their views about the services provided and took these views into account when reviewing service provision.
- There was a leadership structure in place and clear lines of accountability. The practice had systems to seek and act upon feedback from patients using the service. Quality and performance were monitored, risks were identified and managed.
There were areas of practice where the provider needs to make improvements.
Importantly, the provider must:
- Take action to ensure its recruitment policy, procedures and arrangements are in line with Schedule 3 of the Health and Social Care Act 2008 to ensure necessary employment checks are in place for all staff and the required information in respect of workers is held.
- Protect patients against the risks associated with unsafe equipment by ensuring that the electrical wiring is properly maintained and suitable for purpose.
The provider should:
Carry out an assessment of the risks presented by legionella and take appropriate action to address these risks.
Carry out an assessment of access for patients with a physical disability and take appropriate action where any reasonable adjustments can be made.
Professor Steve Field (CBE FRCP FFPH FRCGP)
Chief Inspector of General Practice