Brighton and Sussex Medical School is a joint venture in partnership with the University of Sussex. Services provided are diagnostic imaging in the fields of Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography (PET-CT and CT) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) to patients from local National Health Services trusts and other locations.

The provider gave people enough information in order for them to make decisions about their treatment. The provider followed a robust consent procedure with patients signing written consent forms before commencing treatment.

People were generally satisfied with their treatment and the professionalism of staff. People had their individual needs assessed before commencing treatment and were given detailed information, including risks and contraindications.

We looked around the premises and saw that it was safe, accessible, comfortable and clean. The rooms were well equipped and maintained people's dignity and privacy. There were contingency plans in place for emergency situations.

There was a robust recruitment and selection process in place with evidence of checks being undertaken for new employees. Staff had the appropriate qualifications, skills and knowledge for their roles. Staff completed a thorough induction process followed by on-going professional development.

The provider had effective systems in place to monitor the quality of service provision through patient feedback and clinical audits. The provider effectively dealt with incidents, risks and complaints.

We saw that people were provided with information prior to their scan, and that people were able to ask questions about the procedure. We saw that staff spoke with people calmly, and with sensitivity that promoted their dignity and welfare. One person told us that, “It was helpful to know what to expect.”

We saw that care and treatment was planned and delivered in a way that was intended to ensure people’s safety and welfare. We saw from records that people were assessed for any conditions that may put them at risk when being scanned. We saw that people were offered choice, and that staff responded appropriately to any concerns regarding a person's welfare.

We looked at the provider's safeguarding policy and spoke with staff who demonstrated awareness of safeguarding procedures. We saw that staff had received training for safeguarding vulnerable adults.

Staff were supported with their professional development and received annual appraisals which were reviewed appropriately. Staff did not receive formal supervisions sessions but staff we spoke with told us they felt supported and happy in their role.

Records we looked at showed us that the provider took account of compliments, complaints and incidents, and that the provider regularly reviewed the quality of the diagnostic imaging.