Single Assessment Framework - CQC is making changes to its regulatory approach 

The Single Assessment Framework will apply to providers, local authorities, and integrated care systems. The new format is going to be rolled out gradually across the country, starting on 21 November 2023 in the South Region. CQC has aligned itself with the four regions of the ICB structure: South, London, Central and North. 

Between 21 November and 4 December CQC with will be working with a small number of Practices - ‘early adopters’ for planned assessments. Risk will still be assessed as required during this period. Following this the new assessment approach will be expanded to all providers based on a risk-informed schedule.

Care Quality Commission (CQC)

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) is the independent regulator of all health and adult social care in England. It came into being on 1st April 2009 bringing together the responsibilities of the Commission for Social Care Inspection, the Mental Health Act Commission and the Healthcare Commission.

From 1 April 2013, NHS general practice and other primary medical services that provide a regulated activity need to be registered with CQC. Practices need to keep their registration details up to date. You need to notify CQC of any changes to partnerships and registered managers by accessing the Provider Portal.

Their goal is to ensure that the regulations are met across the sector for the benefit of patients and professionals. This will be achieved by focusing on the five key questions the inspectors ask of the services:

The four Ratings are Outstanding, Good, Requires Improvement and Inadequate.

FAQs

How do CQC gather evidence about our Practice? 

Information, including peoples’ experiences via Experts By Experience and Healthwatch will be gathered in a variety of ways continuously via the current background checking. This means inspections will support what CQC know about a Practice, rather than being the primary way they collect evidence. See evidence categories.

What Triggers Assessments? 

Previously the current rating of a Practice would be the main driver when deciding when to next inspect. However, the new format means that evidence collected or information received (eg whistleblowing) at any time can trigger an assessment/inspection.

For more information or advice please contact our CQC Support Lead Toni.parker@nwlmcs.org

The LMC offers training presentations for all staff, what to expect on Inspection Day, together with general advice and support around your CQC questions and concerns.

To arrange a CQC update for your staff please contact our Events & Liaison Officer  Rebecca.noblett@nwlmcs.org

Related Library Documents

The LMC will identify and store all relevant legislation, guidance, policies and procedures relating to General Practice and provide clarification to practices on matters relating to them. This will include both local and national documentation. Examples include; CQC registration, GMS/PMS contract regulations and Appraisal and Revalidation policies and procedures.