Why does the CQC inspect private GP practices?

What inspections can I expect as a private GP practice?

The CQC will carry out inspections of independent doctors and clinics. Inspections include:

Who does the CQC inspect?

The CQC inspects all NHS and independent healthcare services. Independent healthcare services are private sector organisations which are not NHS trusts or NHS GP services that provide health care.

This includes private GP services, medical practitioners providing consultation and/or treatment, vaccination clinics, slimming/weight management clinics, health screening, family planning and health care services which don’t involve treatment that falls under the acute hospital or single specialty category.

‍What will I need to provide ahead of my CQC inspection?

Before the CQC carry out their inspection, they will need some information to help them to prepare. You will need to respond with this information within five working days. They are likely to ask for:  

What can I do to prepare for my CQC inspection?  

It is important to prepare for your CQC inspection so that you have all the evidence and documentation that is required.

You should continually be staying up to date with procedures and ensuring that you are putting patients care as your main priority.

It is a good idea to collect patient feedback all year round and keep evidence of when you have completed any training.  

If you have staff members, everyone in your private practice should be made aware of the CQC and the framework in which you will be assessed on.

When the CQC inspect your private practice, they may want to talk to members of your staff and ask them some questions about how the practice is run.

Your staff should be fully trained, know where policies and procedures are located and understand what they need to do in situations such as a safeguarding issue, complaint or incident.    

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