- Dentist
Castle & Costa
Report from 10 June 2024 assessment
Contents
Judgements
Our view of the service
We carried out this on-site, announced assessment on 16 September 2024. We found the practice had met regulations. Patients’ care and treatment was provided in line with current guidance and infection control procedures were in place. Patients were treated with dignity and respect and at the time of our assessment, could access care, support and treatment when required. The practice had systems to manage risks. Staff from whom we received feedback, clearly enjoyed their job and were enthusiastic about their work. They described an inclusive, open and supportive environment in which their suggestions were valued by the dentist and practice manager. Staff told us that they felt part of a team and worked well together. The staff were proud of the service they provided to patients. The provider offers domiciliary dental services to care homes in the Norfolk area, and also to vulnerable people living in their own homes. Referrals come mostly from care homes, other dental practices, and people who refer themselves. All treatment is provided on the NHS. A full range of general dental services is offered with a focus on prevention and restorative treatment. Patients requiring x-rays or more complex work are referred to other services, such as the local hospital. The service is not commissioned to provide recall services. The premises where administration and decontamination were carried out was inspected, as well as obtaining feedback from care homes which the practice visited. There was step free access to the premises and car parking spaces, including dedicated parking for disabled people, were available near the service. The dental team consisted of 1 dentist who was the owner, 1 practice manager who was also a receptionist and a qualified dental nurse, and 3 qualified dental nurses.
People's experience of this service
During our assessment, we spoke with care homes where the practice treated patients. Feedback was all positive, with comments mentioning the ease of booking an appointment, kind and caring staff who were polite, professional and treated all patients as individuals.