A look at the QCQ’s consultation on “better regulation, better care” and what it might mean for healthcare sectors regulated by the CQC.
Why the CQC is consulting
The Care Quality Commission is consulting to update how it assesses and rates health and care providers so regulation more reliably supports safety, quality and equity of care. Recent external reviews and stakeholder engagement identified inconsistencies and delays in how ratings reflect current performance, prompting a review of the assessment approach. The consultation aims to reshape regulation so it is clearer, more targeted and better able to drive improvement across sectors the CQC regulates.
What the consultation covers
The consultation sets out proposed changes to the scoring model used to calculate ratings, the role of inspectors’ professional judgement, the processes for keeping judgements up to date and a simplification of the overall assessment framework. It also covers the development of sector-specific rating characteristics, so expectations are clearer for different service types. The materials explain both high-level aims and the specific areas where the CQC intends to change practice.
Key proposed changes
The scoring model will be adjusted so numeric scores and aggregation better distinguish meaningful differences in provider performance. Inspectors’ professional judgement will be given a clearer, strengthened role alongside scores to ensure contextual and clinical insight informs final judgements. The CQC intends to introduce mechanisms to update published ratings more promptly when credible new information emerges. A leaner, sector-tailored assessment framework and clearer rating characteristics will simplify expectations for providers and the public.
Practical implications for regulated providers
Providers should review how their evidence, outcome data and local feedback currently map to the CQC’s scoring approach and be ready to present contextual information that supports professional judgement. Services need systems to surface timely, high-quality evidence so any new processes for updating ratings reflect present performance. Internal governance and quality assurance processes may require adjustment to align with simplified, sector-specific frameworks once finalised.
How and when to respond
The consultation period is open to stakeholders, with documents and response routes available via the CQC consultation page. Respondents can provide written responses and take part in the CQC’s planned autumn engagement events to give sector-specific input. Organisations should submit their responses within the consultation window and use engagement opportunities to shape how the changes will apply to their service type.
Next steps for providers
Read the consultation materials closely, map your existing evidence and reporting to the proposed changes, and plan how you will present contextual information that may require professional judgement. Identify colleagues who should review and contribute to a response, and sign up for CQC updates and engagement events to influence the detailed design of the revised assessment framework. Responding to the consultation offers a direct route to help shape regulation that will affect your service and sector.
Our Services
Disclaimer: This article is for guidance purposes only. Kings View Chambers accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever for any action taken, or not taken, in relation to this article. You should seek the appropriate legal advice having regard to your own particular circumstances.
