This practice is rated as Good overall.

We carried out an announced comprehensive inspection at The Medical Centre on 13 November 2018 as part of our inspection programme.

The previously registered and inspected service at this location, also known The Medical Centre was also rated Good overall and ceased providing services in November 2017.

We based our judgement of the quality of care at this service on a combination of:

• what we found when we inspected
• information from our ongoing monitoring of data about services and
• information from the provider, patients, the public and other organisations.

We have rated this practice as good overall and good for all population groups.

We found that:

• It was not clear that the health of patients prescribed with high-risk medicines was monitored consistently and in line with national guidelines. The practice did not record when clinicians reviewed blood test results undertaken by other care providers as part of shared care arrangements.
• With the exception of a lack of clarity around high-risk medicines, the practice provided care in a way that kept patients safe and protected them from avoidable harm.
• Patients received effective care and treatment that met their needs.
• Staff dealt with patients with kindness and respect and involved them in decisions about their care.
• The practice was aware of barriers to equal care experienced by people whose circumstances made them vulnerable and had made arrangements to improve access to services.
• The practice organised and delivered services to meet patients’ needs. Patients could access care and treatment in a timely way.
• The way the practice was led and managed promoted the delivery of high-quality, person-centre care.
• The practice contributed to improving practice in the local area by contributing to CCG quality improvement activity.

Whilst we found no breaches of regulations, the provider should:

• Review processes in place to monitor the health of patients prescribed with high-risk medicines to ensure that clinicians review patient’s health, including checking blood test results in line with national guidance and that reviews are clearly recorded on patient’s records.
• Consider sharing the practice business continuity plan with all members of staff.
• Consider arrangements in place to accommodate patients who wish to consult with a female GP.

Details of our findings and the evidence supporting our ratings are set out in the evidence tables.

Professor Steve Field CBE FRCP FFPH FRCGP
Chief Inspector of General Practice