In the run up to Christmas, CQC unveiled its consultation on its next phase of regulation - http://www.cqc.org.uk/content/our-next-phase-regulation . In the spirit of Christmas, the consultation has something for everybody and while the main thrust impacts on NHS providers, there are some changes for the independent health and social care sector (with the promise of a further consultation (on the regulation of adult social care and primary medical services) in the Spring of 2017).
The consultation is in four parts, with different parts relevant to different providers in the sector. Further details are set out in the links below:-
1. Regulating new models of care and complex providers - relevant to NHS trusts and independent health and social care providers.
2. Changes to CQC's Key Lines of Enquiry ("KLOEs") - relevant to the NHS and independent health and social care providers.
3. Registering services for learning disabilities - relevant to both NHS and independent health and social care providers.
4. Next phase of regulation – NHS trusts - relevant to NHS providers – this includes proposals for more streamlined regulation (with the avoidance of duplication) which will, no doubt, be well received. However, there are also some significant proposed enhancements to the system, with more regular, and in-depth assessments of whether trusts are 'Well-led', together with new ratings on their use of resources.
We have extensive experience assisting providers with the challenges presented in terms of governance; partnership working and developing new models of care delivery; organisational leadership; and regulatory scrutiny and intervention. If you wish to discuss any of these issues, please contact: David Owens, Vincent Buscemi, Jodie Sinclair or Carlton Sadler.