Optical Express, Dartford Clinic

Updated 22 June 2022

Optical Express, Dartford Clinic provides refractive, oculoplastic and ophthalmic and surgical procedures to people aged 18 years and above. The service includes pre- and post-operative care associated with the procedures. The service is offered to self-paying and some insured (dependent upon insurance provider) patients.

The clinic is located on the ground floor of a multi business development in the heart of Kent Thameside. The clinic was registered and has been operating since November 2020.

The clinic is registered to provide regulated activities of:

• Surgical procedures
• Treatment of disease, disorder or injury
• Diagnostics and screening

A CQC registered manager has been in post since November 2020, with the current registered manager being in post since May 2021.

During the 12 months preceding our inspection, 2957 surgical procedures were carried out. No patients stayed overnight at the facility.

Track record on safety (May 2021 to April 2022)

• No serious incidents
• No never events
• No incidences of hospital acquired infection

Services provided at the clinic under service level agreement:

• Laser servicing
• Decontamination services
• Clinical waste contractor
• Laser Protection Advisor
• Diagnostic equipment

Updated 22 June 2022

We rated it as good because:

• Staff followed protocols for infection prevention and control. We saw that staff washed their hands and cleaned equipment thoroughly. Waste was managed safely.
• Staff knew how to report incidents and safeguarding concerns. Incidents were investigated thoroughly.
• There were systems to ensure that lasers were used safely. The environment was designed and maintained for the use of lasers. Staff were trained to operate lasers. Staff were aware of protocols for safe use of lasers and followed these consistently.
• Staff were supported to maintain up to date clinical skills and competencies. Staff participated in appraisals and competency checks.
• Staff understood and complied with the Mental Capacity Act 2005. Patient consent was checked at every stage of the patient journey.
• The service offered flexibility around appointment times, dates and locations. There was no waiting list for surgery. Surgery was rarely cancelled.
• Interpreter services were available for patients whose first language was not their first language and for patients who used sign language to communicate.
• Governance and performance management arrangements were proactively reviewed and reflected current best practice.
• Staff understood the service’s vision and values, and how to apply them in their work.
• The service engaged well with patients and staff to plan, manage and continually improve services.

However:

• The service did not always store staff and patient files securely in line with national guidance. Staff files were kept in a filing cabinet in the manager’s office which was left unlocked, therefore easily accessible to unauthorised persons.
• The resuscitation trolley checks were not completed regularly and there was an out of date item stored on the trolley.
• We found the medicines cupboard used to stored eye drops was not always locked and the key was left in the lock.
• We found boxes stored on the floor in the storeroom. This meant it was difficult to adequately clean the floors.

Updated 22 June 2022

We rated it as good. See the summary above for details