Letter from the Chief Inspector of General Practice

On 4 November we conducted an announced comprehensive inspection of Dr Siddique and Dr Agha. We found the practice had a clear strategy and a plan regarding how this was to be delivered. We found the practice treated patients with compassion, dignity and respect. Patients were involved in care and treatment decisions and were provided accessible information to help them understand the care available to them. Patients reported good access to the practice, a named GP and continuity of care, with urgent appointments available on the day. The practice was well equipped to treat patients and meet their needs.

We saw outstanding practice in that;

• the practice recently secured funding to pilot weekend opening until March 2015. This was to reduce accident and emergency attendance by their patients. The practice is open Saturday 9am-1pm and Sunday 2pm-6pm with GP and a nurse practitioner assessing, prescribing and delivering treatments to patients. Early evaluation of the programme has shown good patient attendance and satisfaction and a reduction in admission numbers.

However, there were also areas of practice where the provider could improve and should;

• Ensure that completed clinical audit cycles are collated and learning shared within the practice.
• Revisit the role and responsibilities of the Patient Participation Group to ensure best use is being made of the resource.

Professor Steve Field CBE FRCP FFPH FRCGP

Chief Inspector of General Practice