Enter and view: Dr K Subramanian Surgery

Healthwatch Havering conducted an announced enter and view visit to Dr K Subramanian , on 20th July, 2017, as part of their aim to visit all health and social care facilities in the borough, to ensure that all services delivered are acceptable and the safety of the residents is not compromised in any way.

HWH found the exterior of the surgery shabby but the inside was clean, newly decorated and carpeted throughout. No hearing loop was available for patients with a hearing impairment, but there was a translation service available. A hand sanitiser dispenser was due shortly to be installed. A suggestion box was available in the waiting room, together with a box for repeat prescription requests. There was a toilet upstairs and one downstairs, the latter of which was suitable for the disabled. There was no electronic check in - the doctor used a buzzer to indicate that he was ready for the next patient.

The team were told that the GP hub was well used to avoid visits to A&E

The practice manager said she was currently engaged in establishing systems and protocols to meet the requirements of the CQC. A Business Continuity Plan was work in progress, to include staff appointments, references, training, appraisals etc. and she intended to set up a website for the surgery too.

The practice had been registered for maternity and midwifery services. Online booking was not particularly well advertised but was well used. Patients aged over 75 were given an annual health check, as were patients with a learning disability.

The PPG has only recently been established but was already seeking to grow among the patients, and three representatives came to meet the HW team.

HW Havering made no recommendation on this occasion not least because the focus for the surgery for now must be on achieving compliance with the requirements of the CQC. However, Healthwatch Havering planned to maintain contact with the practice and plans to visit again in a few months’ time to review the progress made.