Bolton Community Practice CIC managed five GP practices across Bolton. This inspection was undertaken at the Navigation Park, Waters Meeting Road, practice, also known locally as Astley Dale branch. We noted staff spoke with patients and dealt with telephone calls in a friendly but professional manner. Confidentiality was maintained.
There was a well established and effective patient advisory group (PAG). Patients were actively involved in the development of the practice and it's services.
We sampled four patients care files which were maintained electronically. We saw when patients had registered with the practice, they attended for an initial health review. We found that medical histories and consultations were well documented.
We found staff had an appropriate understanding of safeguarding.
We found care was provided in an environment which was clean and well organised. The practice was based in a modern purpose built health centre. Cleaning was undertaken by an external company for the whole centre.
A comprehensive range of policies, procedures and guidance in place for staff to access. This supported the safe management of the service. Systems had been implemented to effectively identify, assess and manage risks related to the service.
Patients we spoke with were positive about the practice. We were told: "The staff here are great, I have no complaints" and "Sometimes it's hard to get an appointment, but the staff are always very nice".