We need a well-informed and collaborative regulator for health care

“The new Secretary of State for Health and Social Care has condemned the Care Quality Commission (CQC) as ‘not fit for purpose’ and cites a range of issues – ranging from the qualification and experience of inspectors through to backlogs and inconsistencies in the inspection regime – as being of serious concern.

Whilst some may interpret these comments as part of a political ‘new broom’ approach, the observations will resonate with many delivering and leading health and social care services. Anecdotal evidence from senior NHS clinicians and leaders confirms that the CQC is too often viewed with suspicion, even fear, raising serious doubts about its credibility.

A well-informed, collaborative and collegiate regulator – with a clear mission and informed inspectors – is in the interests of healthcare staff and patients alike. The changes required are as much about culture and relationships as about structures, and Mr Streeting’s forthright intervention provides an opportunity to rethink approaches to quality and safety in health and social care. The adage that ‘you can’t inspect quality into a system’ is broadly true, a well-functioning regulator is in everybody’s interests.”