Letter from the Chief Inspector of General Practice

We carried out an announced comprehensive inspection at Little Lever Health Centre on 25 April 2017. Overall the practice is rated as good.

Our key findings across all the areas we inspected were as follows:

• There was an open and transparent approach to safety and a system in place for reporting and recording significant events.
• The practice had systems to minimise risks to patient safety.

• Staff were aware of current evidence based guidance. Staff had been trained to provide them with the skills and knowledge to deliver effective care and treatment.
• Results from the national GP patient survey showed patients were treated with compassion, dignity and respect. However results were mixed when compared to the national average. The majority of patients we spoke with on the day were positive about their care and treatment.
• Information about services and how to complain was available. Improvements were made to the quality of care as a result of complaints and concerns.
• Patients we spoke with said they found it could be difficult to make a pre bookable appointment with a GP. We noted however the majority were able to access urgent same day appointments.
• The practice had good facilities and was well equipped to treat patients and meet their needs.
• There was a clear leadership structure and staff felt supported by management. The practice proactively sought feedback from staff and patients, which it acted on.
• The provider was aware of the requirements of the duty of candour.

The areas where the provider should make improvement are:

• Look to incorporate full cycle clinical audits into the quality improvement systems.
• Look to continue monitoring and improving access for patients.

Professor Steve Field (CBE FRCP FFPH FRCGP) 

Chief Inspector of General Practice