Letter from the Chief Inspector of General Practice

We carried out an inspection of Lingwell Croft Surgery on 14 October 2014 as part of our comprehensive programme of inspection of primary medical services. 

We have rated the practice as providing a good service overall. Details of these findings are in the following report, but in summary our key findings were as follows:

• Information from NHS England and the clinical commissioning group (CCG) indicated that the practice had a good track record for maintaining patient safety.

• Care and treatment was being delivered in accordance with current published best practice guidelines. Patient needs were consistently met and referrals to secondary care were made in a timely manner.

• All the patients who completed CQC comment cards, and those we spoke with during our inspection, were complimentary about the care they received.

• The practice had an effective complaints policy and responded appropriately to complaints.

• The leadership team were effective and had a clear vision and purpose. There were systems in place to drive continuous improvement.

We found that patients who worked had good access to the practice. There were good infection control processes. Patients were treated with kindness and respect. Patients’ needs were met and effective communication with patients appeared to be the priority for the practice.

Sincerely,

Professor Steve Field (CBE FRCP FFPH FRCGP) 

Chief Inspector of General Practice

During the inspection we spoke with seven staff. Patients were asked if they would like to speak with an inspector however patients choose not to speak with us. We therefore looked at a patient survey completed by the practice. Comments included: “All the doctors are lovely;” “Receptionists brilliant” and “Very caring staff.”

Patients' needs were assessed and care and treatment was planned and delivered in line with their individual wishes.

Staff had received training in the safeguarding vulnerable of adults and children. They were aware of the appropriate agencies to refer safeguarding concerns so patients were protected from harm.

Staff told us they were well supported in their work. They told us they able to access training opportunities.

The provider had an effective system in place to identify, assess and manage the service.