Carrying out inspections of your practice by the CQC can be daunting. But reading the reports they have published on practices that were inadequate upon inspection, can help you better prepare for possible inspections of your practice in the future.
There are four main areas that are explored in detail, in the said reports. So following these guidelines (provided direct from the CQC) can help your practice ace the inspection.
Safety should be a top priority, being the most common reason for failures in inspections. The safety procedures should be well managed and well communicated, making it easy for patients to report complaints or concerns and for you to address such concerns. You should also have evidence of investigations into such complaints made previously. Since Safety is believed to be primarily a design issue, it is best to ensure that your system guarantees safety of those entering and using your premises.
Your recruitment practices, especially in terms of pre-screening of potential employees, DBS checks and post-employment appraisal systems of your employees, should be up-to-date and proper. Many practices lack such systems, which is another main area of failure at inspections. Also, ensure that appraisals maintain regularity, clarity and focus.
Make sure your staff pass all important tests for practitioners and that appraisals are done in such a way to help your staff grow individually and collectively. Maintain records of these practices, to be shown at an inspection.
Leadership is also an important aspect, if not patients would end up feeling neglected while staff are floundering in uncertain circumstances. Provide proper guidance and leadership to staff; and through them to your patients.
The final reason for practices to fail inspections is related to the premises. See if your practice office is easily accessible and is secure for those using it. Additionally, maintain records of maintenance and cleaning programmes to ensure patient details are properly documented and displayed. Guarantee privacy for your patients.
