Hastings GP rated '˜inadequate' by inspectors

Dr Rajesh Pandey, who works at Priory Road Surgery in Hastings, provides care for more than 2,500 patients.

Inspectors from the Care Quality Commission have rated Dr Pandey ‘inadequate’ for providing safe services and being well-led.

A report, published on March 24, said: “The practice did not ensure the surgery was adequately clean. The GP did not obtain written consent for invasive procedures such as joint injections and patients were not sufficiently informed of the risks or complications of the procedure and any alternatives.”

Inspectors said patients were at risk of harm because the right processes were not in place to keep them safe. They found chaperone staff had not been through Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks.

The practice will now be supported by NHS England and the Royal College of General Practice to help it improve.

Janet Williamson, deputy chief inspector of General Practice said: “Dr Rajesh Pandey provides general medical services to 2,600 registered patients and all people are entitled to expect high quality and consistent care from their GP practice.

“We have found significant areas of concern, which is why we are placing this practice into special measures. This will enable them to receive a package of support to help them improve, from NHS England and the RCGP.

“We will continue to monitor progress and we will inspect again in six months to check whether sufficient improvements have been made. I am hopeful that the practice will do what is required for the sake of their patients, but if we find that services remain inadequate, we will consider taking further action.”

However, inspectors rated the practice ‘good’ for being caring, adding patients were treated with ‘compassion, dignity and respect’.

It was rated ‘requires improvement’ for being effective and responsive.

Professor Steve Field, chief inspector of General Practice said: “I am placing this practice in special measures. Practices placed in special measures will be inspected again within six months.”

He said if the practice doesn’t improve, the CQC could cancel Dr Pandey’s registration and close the service.

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