We carried out an announced comprehensive inspection on 18 August 2015 to ask the practice the following key questions; Are services safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led?

Our findings were:

Are services safe?

We found that this practice was providing safe care in accordance with the relevant regulations

Are services effective?

We found that this practice was providing effective care in accordance with the relevant regulations

Are services caring?

We found that this practice was providing caring services in accordance with the relevant regulations

Are services responsive?

We found that this practice was providing responsive care in accordance with the relevant regulations

Are services well-led?

We found that this practice was well-led care in accordance with the relevant regulations and improvements are required.

VAS Dental Care is located in the London Borough of Lewisham and provides mainly NHS dental services but has a small number of private patients. The demographics of the practice was mixed, serving patients from a range of social and ethnic backgrounds. The practice is open Monday to Saturday with a range of opening times, including offering evening appointments. The practice facilities include two consultation rooms, reception and waiting area, decontamination room and an administration office. The premises are not wheelchair accessible, however the practice can refer patients to a branch location close by should the need arise.

We received feedback from seven patients. This included speaking with patients on the day of the inspection and also completed CQC comment cards. Patients’ feedback was positive and they were happy with staff and the physical environment of the practice.

Our key findings were:

• Patients’ needs were assessed and care was planned in line with current guidance.
• Patients were involved in their care and treatment planning so they could make informed decisions.
• There were effective processes in place to reduce and minimise the risk and spread of infection.
• There were appropriate equipment and access to emergency drugs to enable the practice to respond to medical emergencies. Staff knew where equipment was stored.
• All clinical staff were up to date with their continuing professional development.
• There was appropriate equipment for staff to undertake their duties, and equipment was maintained appropriately.
• Appropriate governance arrangements were in place to facilitate the smooth running of the service.

There were areas where the provider could make improvements and should:

Review staff awareness of the requirements of the Mental Capacity Act (MCA) 2005 and ensure all staff are aware of their responsibilities under the Act as it relates to their role.