Earlier in the year, CQC gave an update about their plans to change how they work in 2023. Their new approach includes assessing providers using the new assessment framework, supported by a new provider portal.

This August, they will invite a group of providers to log onto the new portal. They will be able to explore its functionality as part of a new range of digital services that make it easier to interact with them. We’ll roll out the new portal to all providers in phases from September. Each one will be invited onto the portal with their login details and guidance on how to use it.

CQC want to streamline how they collect data to support their new approach to regulation, as this will help them assess in a smarter, more consistent way. The new portal plays a large part in helping to make that a reality and will make it easier for providers to share information with us.

In November, they plan to start to use our new assessment framework. This will be rolled out regionally, starting with providers in the South of England. Any assessments for these providers will be carried out using the new framework. They will schedule our assessments by considering factors such as the level of risk, so not all providers will have an immediate assessment.

In other regions, they’ll continue to use our current assessment framework until the roll-out of the new framework is complete.

CQC Chief Executive, Ian Trenholm said:

“These are two major milestones in delivering our strategy. Making our interactions with providers more streamlined and simpler is central in supporting them to deliver better care. Our new assessment approach will be more flexible and proportionate, and will be the driving force behind giving an up-to-date view of quality.”

What do providers need to do?

They will contact each provider when it is their time to join the new portal. In the meantime, they ask all providers to ensure that contact details for their organisation are up to date. This will ensure they invite the right people to join the new portal and keep them informed about the roll-out of the new regulatory approach.

They have updated their guidance about the changes in the way they regulate. All providers need to read this, as it will answer questions to help prepare for assessment under the new framework. They will continue to update this over the coming weeks and months.

Staying updated
The phased approach to assessments using the new framework, introducing the new provider portal and wider digital services, will continue into 2024. We’ll keep everyone informed, as we understand that providers and local health and care systems need time to prepare for the changes.