A GP practice which was found to have put patients at risk has been placed in special measures.

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) rated Dr Haq’s Practice, in the Abbey Medical Centre in Barking, as inadequate following an inspection.

The Harpour Road service must now make several improvements or face action that could result to closure.

These include the better use of systems to record and report safety concerns and ensuring a proper cleaning schedule for ear syringes.

CQC inspectors also found that arrangements for managing vaccines was insufficient as fridge temperatures were not consistently or appropriately recorded.

There was also some confusion among staff regarding roles and responsibilities.

Annual infection prevention and control audits were not available and there was a lack of communication between clinical and non-clinical staff.

However patients were positive about their interactions with staff and said they were treated with compassion and dignity.

The practice is used by about 6,500 patients, including a high proportion with a longstanding health condition or with carer responsibilities.

The CQC will reinspect the premises within six months to check whether sufficient improvements have been made.