Two DDA members have received ratings of ‘Good’ from the CQC.

At Wakering Medical Centre, in Great Wakering, Essex, inspectors highlighted the following aspects of good dispensing practice:

• The dispensary was run by well-trained staff
• Staff competencies were monitored to ensure patients received a safe and effective service
• Staff followed effective processes to monitor and manage medicines that require monitoring and knew how to keep people safe
• Dispensary staff had opportunities to attend any training relevant to their roles.

Inspectors offered a range of medication management recommendations, including:

• Reduce the number of prescriptions for broad-spectrum antibiotics, where possible
• Reduce prescribing of medication for uncomplicated urinary tract infections, where possible.

The dispensary team comprises three dispensers, supported by three GP partners and a salaried GP.

Also rated as ‘Good’ is DDA member, The Broadshires Health Centre, in Carterton, Oxfordshire.

At the practice, the dispensing contract is outsourced to an external pharmacy contractor.

• A rating of ‘Outstanding’ has been awarded to Kent dispensing practice The Charing Medical Partnership, in Ashford for its effective, responsive and well-led service.