News » HIW, Wales » Unsafe medicines storage and fridge checks raised by Welsh regulator
December 6th 2023
Medicines not safely stored and medication fridge temperature checks not completed are among the concerns found by the Welsh GP regulator, its new annual report shows.
Other failings include: a lack of DBS checks on staff including administrative and reception staff, incomplete safeguarding records and poor follow up of concerns; checks of emergency equipment and drugs not completed; poor compliance with mandatory training including safeguarding, CPR and infection prevention and control and out of date equipment including sterile sutures, sterile gloves, and minor surgical operations packs and needles.
The annual report from Healthcare Inspectorate Wales (HIW) also finds sustained pressure on Welsh GP surgeries and calls for leaders “to consider the repeated concern from patients who are unable to access the [GP] service and consider what else can be done to alleviate the pressure on GP services.”
Difficulty in getting an appointment with a GP was one of three key themes raised by the public, along with difficulty in accessing a regular dentist and getting any dental care.
Long waiting lists for treatment are increasing the pressure on GP services, HIW concludes.
