Public BoD papers 26.5.22

3. New CQC process summary Prior to COVID-19 the CQC’s approach was to monitor, inspect and rate. From February 2020, in response to the pandemic many routine inspections were stepped down. Since then, inspections have been prioritised where there was evidence of harm, evidence of a ‘closed’ organisational culture or services that had never been inspected previously. Following a period of service user and provider engagement a new strategy was launched in May 2021: ‘Smarter regulation for a safer future’ looking at both service providers and systems to establish how e.g., Integrated Care Systems (ICSs) are improving outcomes for people and reducing inequalities in their care. Proposed quality statement themes for Integrated Care System (ICS) reviews are to be across three themes:

Evidence for assessments will focus on: • People’s experience • Feedback from partners • Feedback from staff and leaders • Observation • Processes • Outcomes and performance data What difference will this make to people? • Peoples’ voices heard and represented • Independent assurance • Reducing inequalities • Holding to account and escalating concerns • Focused on learning and improvement • Informing the national picture

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