In response to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Care Quality Commission (CQC) paused routine inspections and implemented the Emergency Support Framework (ESF) using regular conversations between inspectors and providers as an additional monitoring tool to gather information. Using the learnings acquired from the ESF as a springboard, CQC has now replaced the ESF with its transitional monitoring approach (TMA) in order to adapt and evolve the methods it uses to monitor services. The stated aim is to target its regulatory activity ‘most effectively.’
In addition to responding to the unique challenges posed by the pandemic, CQC will also be considering longer-term regulatory changes. It will seek feedback by way of a full public consultation in January 2021 with the new strategy to be launched in May 2021.
According to CQC, the TMA will focus on safety, how effectively a service is led and how easily people can access the service. It will include:
CQC began rolling out this new approach on 6 October 2020, so providers can now expect to receive a call from, or an online meeting with CQC under this new regulatory approach.
It is important to note that such conversations are not categorised as inspections and that services will not be rated following a call. However, the call will help CQC to decide whether further regulatory action, for example an inspection, is warranted at this stage.
The CQC will consider the information it has about the service, including:
During calls, inspectors will focus upon previously published KLOEs categorised broadly under the existing five key questions: safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led. The calls will provide an opportunity for inspectors to discuss questions raised within the KLOEs, specific risks identified, examples of good practice and improvements to the service. Inspectors may also request evidence from providers regarding specific issues. After the call, the inspector will prepare an overall monitoring summary of their findings.
Depending upon the information gathered by the inspector, the call would result in regulatory enforcement action if the inspectors were of the view that there is a risk to the safety of people using the service, or the issuance of a record of the call if no further regulatory action is required.
With regard to the record of the call, known as a ‘monitoring summary record’, CQC has stated that: “This record is not an inspection report, and there is no rating as a result. This means that usual steps such as the factual accuracy process do not apply. We will not publish summary records on our website.”
In practice, this means:
The new approach is likely therefore to be of particular concern to providers that are keen to improve their inspection ratings.
Quality Care Group works with Errol Archer to offer tailored CQC Consultancy and Legal Support to its clients at favourable rates.
Errol is a specialist regulatory solicitor working with health and social care providers to support their regulatory compliance and to protect and defend their businesses.
He and his experienced colleagues work with providers of all sizes throughout England and Wales.
For more information, please contact us on 01273 424 904 or email riskcontrol@qcaregroup.co.uk
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