Why has the inspection process changed?
To keep up with such a dynamic sector: the social care sector is fast moving and inspection processes change in order to provide the best care for those who need it.
During the pandemic the traditional inspection methods were adapted, swapping snapshot views of the providers with a more holistic and longer term view of the care provided.
This movement away from a rigorous approach reflects the dynamic nature of the sector, as the new strategies being implemented have the intention to change alongside the sector. CQC have made the intention to leave the ‘one-size fits all’ approach behind and take up an adaptable approach instead, starting the change small and implementing changes as they go along.
What is changing?
The new policy has been developed as a ‘single assessment framework’, referring to one assessment to be used across all service types and levels. There is a data heavy approach in gathering information, which lends itself to seeing the service over a time period, rather than a one off inspection.
That’s not to say CQC are getting rid of visit inspections, but rather the traditional in person visits will be supplemented with gathering data and information from the providers too. This will include a new risk based approach, focusing on how providers look at mitigating risks in their care.
The data gathering is not limited to providers alone, CQC will also use the information found to improve their assessment methods to adapt the new framework to what works best with providers, and clients.
What’s staying the same?
It may all seem new, but don’t worry, there is some continuity from the old methods! The four point rating scale of outstanding to inadequate is here to stay. Similarly, the five key questions will still be a focus of the information gathering: safe, effective, caring, responsive and well led.
What do providers need to do?
- Make sure you’re prepared! Keep your information organised and up to date.
- Book on our CQC course to outline what you need to do in more detail
- Take advantage of our 1:1 coaching sessions with our experienced sector experts
