Ringwood Dental not complying with all regulations, say CQC inspectors

A DENTAL practice in Ringwood lacks “effective leadership” and is not complying with all regulations, according to inspectors.

Following a visit by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) in January, Ringwood Dental in Southampton Road was found to be safe, effective, caring and responsive.

But in terms of being well-led, inspectors said the business was “not complying” with all regulations.

CQC inspectors wrote: “There was a lack of effective leadership, and not all risks associated with undertaking of regulated activities had been suitably identified and mitigated.”

They continued: “Two weeks before our on-site assessment, we asked the practice to encourage patients to share their views of the service with us. We did not receive any feedback.

“Three out of 17 patients told us that they did not know how to complain should they have an issue and five told us they did not know how to get emergency dental treatment when the practice was closed.

“While the people we questioned told us that they were happy with their care, our assessment found there were regulations that were not met.”

The CQC said it is now asking the practice for an “action plan” to respond to the concerns raised by inspectors.

Praising areas of the practice’s operation, inspectors said patients are treated with “dignity and respect” and are able to access support and care when required.

Inspectors also found patient complaints are dealt with “positively and efficiently” by staff.