Update: CQC’s timeline for implementing its new regulatory approach

Earlier this month, the Care Quality Commission published an update to its transformation programme in which the health and care sector will see the implementation of the regulator’s new single assessment framework – originally due to go live in January.

So, what can health and care providers expect from CQC’s revised timeline?

In the summer

• CQC will roll out the new provider portal, notifying providers individually when they’re able to sign up. CQC plan to do this in "stages and provide support and guidance" along the way. They state that “it will still be quicker to submit information such as statutory notifications” using the new portal as they move away from email.
• When the new assessment framework is rolled out, providers will be able to review CQC judgements through “an improved process for checking the factual accuracy of draft reports”.
• CQC will publish evidence from local authorities and integrated care systems across specific thematic areas.

Later in 2023

• CQC will start to carry out assessments of providers using the new framework.
• Providers will be able to register with CQC and make changes to registration using the portal with the expectation that all interactions with providers will be on the portal.
• To allow more time for testing, CQC has decided to move back the rollout of their enforcement processes.

Comment

Health and care providers can expect CQC’s changes to its approach to regulation will continue into 2024 but in the interim, they can expect “more detail” on what good looks like under the new assessment framework, the evidence the CQC will prioritise and how providers will interact with the new operational teams.

If you’d like to discuss any of the issues raised here or would like support with getting your care home ready for the new framework – do get in touch, we’d love to hear from you.