Pre-inspection audits are crucial to your business in preparing for a CQC inspection. Understanding what the CQC expects from regulated providers will ensure that you are prepared and can demonstrate that you are delivering Good and Outstanding care.
Why Are Pre-inspection Audits Important?
Pre-inspection audits allow you to evaluate your service provision against actual standards. They are measured against the same standards the CQC use, including the Key Lines of Enquiry (KLOES) and their Five Key Questions – Safe, Effective, Caring, Responsive and Well-led. A pre-inspection audit will provide detailed feedback from a different perspective and allow you to take a step back, reflect and review your service.
The Five Key Questions
There are Five Key Questions that the CQC will ask your care service: Are they safe? Are they effective? Are they caring? Are they responsive to people’s needs? Are they well-led?
Common Compliance Factors Affecting Providers During Inspections
- Good at providing care but poor at evidencing it.
- Lack of investment in quality protocols which demonstrate compliance.
- Policy in paper and not in practice.
- Poor systems in place for the recruitment and retention of staff.
