IMPROVEMENTS made to safety have ensured that a Northwich medical practice has retained its good rating.

CQC inspectors visited Watling Medical Practice in November 2018 and rated it as good, thanks to the skills, knowledge and experience demonstrated by staff when carrying out their roles.

However they did highlight certain shortfalls in safety, which were said to ‘require improvement’.

The report published at the time stated: “There were shortfalls in the required information that needs to be obtained prior to recruiting staff.”

But following a desk-based review, inspectors confirmed that the practice has now carried out its plan to meet legal requirements in relation to breaches identified during the previous inspection.

In his inspection report, Professor Steve Field, chief inspector of general practice, said: “The system for recruiting staff has been reviewed to ensure only fit and proper persons are employed.

“The provider has taken action to address the areas where we advised them that improvements should be made.

“Improvements have been made to the procedures for the management of prescriptions, and the risk assessment for taking medication on home visits has been updated.

“Staff have received guidance on the updated safeguarding policies and procedures.”

To improve further, Professor Field added that an elbow mixer tap in the minor surgery room could improve infection control and that curtains should be provided in two treatment rooms to promote privacy and dignity during examinations.

The practice said that action is being taken to address these issues.