Improvements required at doctor’s surgery

Norden House Surgery, in Avenue Road, Winslow, was inspected in December and the report was published this week.

The practice was rated as ‘Good’ in three out of five areas and inspectors said they found many examples of good care and treatment.

But the report says the surgery must improve safeguarding and the administration of medicines. Healthcare assistants must always obtain authorisation from an approved prescriber before administering flu immunisations.

The practice must also reduce the risk of confidential information being overheard. Patients were concerned that conversations with staff at Norden House reception could be overheard by others.

The report says the practice must overhaul its appointments system and ensure there are enough appointments to meet demand.

Practice manager Noel Ratcliffe said: “We are disappointed with the overall rating, however CQC did recognise that we provide good clinical care that was effective, caring and met patient’s needs. The outstanding issues related to minor changes required to our premises, systems and appointment system which are already resolved or in the process of being rectified.

“We feel strongly that these CQC bandings do not adequately reflect on the quality of care that we deliver and that this rating risks causing unnecessary alarm to patients.

“We pride ourselves on the standard of care we provide.

“We would strongly urge everyone to read the detail in the report and not judge us by the headline rating.”