Crocus Medical Practice is committed to maintaining the highest standards of infection prevention and control (IPC) to protect our patients, staff, and visitors.

This annual statement has been produced in accordance with the Health and Social Care Act 2008: Code of Practice on the Prevention and Control of Infections and Related Guidance and provides assurance that effective systems are in place to prevent and control infection within the Practice.

The Practice has a designated Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) Lead who oversees IPC policies, audits, staff training, risk assessments, and ongoing compliance with national guidance.

Overview of Infection Prevention and Control

During the reporting period, there were no significant infection transmission incidents or outbreaks associated with the Practice.

To minimise the risk of infection transmission, the Practice continues to maintain a range of preventative measures, including:

• Telephone triage of potentially infectious patients before attendance.
• Access to an isolation room when required.
• Adherence to standard infection prevention precautions.
• Appropriate use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Strict hand hygiene procedures for all staff.

These measures help ensure a safe clinical environment for patients and staff.

Audits and Monitoring

The Practice undertakes regular infection prevention audits and monitoring activities to maintain high standards of cleanliness and safety.

These include:

• Monthly hand hygiene audits.
• Regular cleaning audits and daily cleaning schedules.
• Sharps management audits.
• Vaccine and medical fridge temperature monitoring.
• Weekly stock control checks for clinical supplies.

No significant concerns were identified during the reporting period, and ongoing monitoring continues to support compliance with infection control standards.

Environmental Safety Measures

To maintain a safe and hygienic environment, the Practice ensures that:

• Clinical curtains are changed regularly in accordance with national guidance.
• Clinical furniture and equipment are suitable for effective cleaning and decontamination.
• Appropriate signage is displayed throughout clinical areas.
• Hand hygiene facilities are readily accessible.
• Needle-stick injury and PPE guidance is available in treatment rooms.

Risk Management

The Practice maintains a programme of infection prevention and control risk assessments, including:

• Legionella water safety assessments.
• Infection outbreak preparedness planning.
• Clinical environment and equipment risk assessments.
• COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) assessments.

Any identified risks are reviewed promptly and appropriate actions are implemented.

Staff Training

All staff receive infection prevention and control training appropriate to their role.

This includes:

• Mandatory annual IPC training.
• IPC training as part of staff induction.
• Ongoing updates in line with national guidance and best practice.

The Practice maintains a high level of compliance with mandatory training requirements across all staff groups.

Policies and Procedures

The Practice maintains a range of infection prevention and control policies which are reviewed regularly and updated in line with national guidance.

These include:

• Infection Prevention and Control Policy
• Hand Hygiene Policy
• Sharps Safety Policy
• Cleaning and Decontamination Procedures
• Waste Management Policy

All staff are expected to follow these policies and support a culture of continuous improvement and patient safety.

Looking Ahead

During the coming year, Crocus Medical Practice will continue to:

• Maintain high standards of infection prevention and control.
• Continue regular audits and compliance monitoring.
• Provide ongoing staff training and updates.
• Strengthen assurance processes through regular review of IPC systems.
• Maintain preparedness for seasonal and emerging infectious diseases.

Annual Declaration

Crocus Medical Practice confirms that appropriate infection prevention and control systems are in place and that the Practice remains compliant with current national standards and guidance. We are committed to maintaining and continually improving our infection prevention and control arrangements to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our patients, staff, and visitors.