Medical practice ups its inspection ratings

Greenbank Medical Practice, based at Barley Clough Medical Centre in Glodwick.

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A GLODWICK medical practice is "delighted" after being pulled out of special measures to receive an overall good rating in its latest inspection.

The total turnaround saw Greenbank Medical Practice, based in Barley Clough Medical Centre, climb up two ratings.

Following an announced inspection in June 2016 the surgery was rated inadequate, placed in special measures, and handed two warning notices relating to dignity, respect and good governance.

Transparent

A follow-up inspection was carried out in October 2016 when the Care Quality Commission (CQC) found the Nugget Street site to have met the requirements of the warning notice.

The newly released results of the most recent inspection in February 2017 saw the practice leap up two classifications.

Chief inspector of general practice professor Steve Field said: "We found an open and transparent approach to safety.

"Risks to patients were assessed and well managed.

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

"There was a clear leadership structure and staff felt supported by management.

"I am taking this service out of special measures. This recognises the significant improvements made to the quality of care provided by this service."

The CQC also praised the practice's "good facilities," saying the site was "well-equipped" to treat patients and meet their needs.

Patients told inspectors they found it easy to make appointments with a GP and urgent appointments were available the same day.

The most recent GP patient survey results, published in July 2016, found 90 per cent of patients described the overall experience of Greenbank Medical Practice as good compared to the CCG average of 85 per cent and the national average of 85 per cent.

During their visit, inspectors received 19 comment cards which were "all positive" about the standard of care received.

Support

The CQC said: "Patients commented that GPs were professional and listened to them, staff were helpful and caring, and they were able to access appointments."

A total of nine patients spoke with inspectors who attended, with all saying they were "satisfied" with the care their received and thought staff were "approachable, committed and caring."

Practice manager Amy Yates said: "As a practice we are delighted with our new rating and we would like to thank patients for their support over the last 12 months."