CQC inspectors to assess GP practices use of tech to improve access

Under a new assessment framework launched for consultation, the CQC will assess how GPs are making use of technology to ‘ensure timely access’ for patients.

The new assessment protocol will cover all health specialities rather than being tailored to each part of the NHS and, if approved, would come into force for GP practices and GP out-of-hours services from October 2017.

The new framework includes NHS priorities such as use of technology and promoting self-care, for example: is technology used to support timely access? Is the technology (including telephone systems and online/digital services) easy to use and does it support people to access advice and treatment?; How are national priorities to improve the population’s health supported? For example, smoking cessation, obesity, drug and alcohol dependency, dementia and cancer; and are people told when they need to seek further help and advised what to do if their condition deteriorates?'

Commenting on the consultation, David Behan, CQC chief executive, said: “We want to simplify our assessments, but also strengthen them using what we have learned over the last three years to make sure they continue to highlight best practice, identify concerns and where necessary, to take appropriate action whilst supporting inadequate providers to improve their quality and safety in the interests of people who use their services.”