CQC Highlights Improvements at Luton GP Practice

England’s Chief Inspector of General Practice has welcomed improvements in the quality of services provided by Stopsley Village Practice in Stopsley, Luton in Bedfordshire.

In December 2015, inspectors identified concerns with regard to the leadership and safety of the practice. As a result the practice was given an overall rating of Inadequate and placed into special measures.

The latest inspection concluded that the practice had addressed all areas of concern. It has now been awarded an overall rating of Good.

Inspectors found that since the original inspection the practice had taken significant steps to improve leadership, with a focus on improving the quality and safety of its services to patients.

Key findings:

·         The providers have significantly strengthened their leadership and management and have taken a proactive team approach towards making and sustaining improvements in quality.

·         Patients said they found it easy to make an appointment with a named GP and there was continuity of care, with urgent appointments available the same day.

·         Risks to patients are now being assessed and well managed, and identified actions from risk assessments had been completed.

·         There was is an open and transparent approach to safety and an effective system in place for reporting and recording significant events.

·         There is a clear leadership structure and staff feel supported by management. The practice proactively seeks feedback from staff and patients, and acts on it.

·         Patients said they were treated with compassion, dignity and respect and they were involved in their care and decisions about their treatment.

·         Staff were supported by appraisals and had personal development plans in place.

Professor Steve Field, Chief Inspector of General Practice, said:

“It was disappointing that our inspection in December 2015 highlighted concerns, particularly in relation to whether it was safe and well-led.

“I am very pleased to see that since then, the practice has made significant progress, which has led to a much better service.”

“The practice had a clear vision and strategy to deliver high-quality care and promote good outcomes for patients. Staff were clear about the vision and their responsibilities in relation to it.

“It is clear that the practice took our findings seriously, seeking external advice to help it improve and working hard to implement the necessary changes. All of the staff should be extremely proud of what they have achieved and I applaud the dedication and commitment they have shown to improving the care of their patients.”