- Dentist
Highview Dental Practice
Report from 24 February 2025 assessment
Contents
Judgements
Our view of the service
We found the practice had not met all regulations.
Leadership was not consistently effective to promote a culture of continuous improvement.
Systems and processes to maintain oversight of the premises and equipment, including medical emergency and radiation equipment were not always working effectively.
The practice had systems to identify and manage risks, however these were not always effective, and findings were not always acted on.
Infection control procedures in place were mostly in line with best practice guidance.
Recruitment procedures reflected current legislation.
Patients’ care and treatment was provided in line with current guidance.
Patients were treated with dignity and respect and at the time of our assessment, could access care, support and treatment when required.
The practice is in Dudley and provides NHS and private dental care and treatment for adults and children.
There was step-free access to the practice and car parking spaces available, including dedicated parking for disabled people, near the practice.
The practice had 2 treatment rooms. At the time of our assessment, there was a total of 6 staff, of which there were 2 dentists, 3 dental nurses, 1 receptionist and the practice manager. We gathered feedback from staff and spoke to a range of staff during our assessment, including 1 dentist, 2 dental nurses and the practice manager.
The provider was not complying with Regulation17, Good Governance. Full details of the regulation the provider was not meeting are within the assessment findings below.
We have asked the provider for an action plan in response to the concerns found at this assessment.
People's experience of this service
Two weeks before our on-site assessment, we asked the practice to encourage patients to share their views of the service with us. We received feedback from 11 patients. On the day of our assessment, we reviewed patient feedback collected by the provider. Patient feedback provided a positive view of the dental team and care provided by the practice.
Patients commented positively about the standards of cleanliness.
Patients felt able to book appointments within an acceptable timescale for their needs and said they had enough time during their appointment without feeling rushed.
Patients told us they were given clear information to help them make an informed choice about their treatment and any associated costs. They were involved in decisions about their care.
Patients told us that when they were prescribed medicines, sufficient information was given.
Patients told us that they were supported to maintain their oral health and were provided with appropriate information and resources.
The practice shared patient feedback with the team. We were told this was reviewed and where suggestions had been made, appropriate action would be taken.