Webinar Q&A

Will these changes apply to Community Dental Services?
The single assessment framework will be replaced by sector-specific frameworks, which will include Community Dental Services.

If we are changing the entity from a sole trader to a limited company, will we need to submit the new registration forms?

Yes, changing from a sole trader to a limited company is considered a change in legal entity (or business type) and must be registered with CQC. CQC states that providers must notify them of a change in business type, such as moving from an individual provider (sole trader) to a limited company, to ensure the continued delivery of regulated activities when a service transfers between legal entities. To do this, you will need to update your registration through the provider portal and complete the relevant additional information form for your sector. CQC also advises that you must complete a new provider application, along with the required supporting documentation.

If the registered manager is on holiday/medical leave and they ask for the CQC inspection date to be rearranged – does the CQC view this unfavourably?

The absence of a registered manager does not automatically mean that a CQC inspection will be rearranged. If the service is open and operating as normal, inspectors will often proceed with the inspection. In many cases, it can help inspectors to see how the practice operates in the registered manager's absence, as this may demonstrate effective leadership, governance arrangements, and business continuity.

However, every situation is different, and CQC will consider individual circumstances. If a registered manager is on annual leave, sick leave or absent for another reason, it is advisable to discuss this with the inspector as early as possible and explain any relevant circumstances. The inspector will then determine whether the inspection should proceed as planned or whether alternative arrangements are appropriate.

Where can we find a list of questions that we will be asked, the evidence we need in place and what a good or excellent practice looks like?

There is no definitive list of questions that inspectors work through, and you cannot guarantee what will be asked. This is because inspectors are led by the evidence they gather before, during and after an inspection. This includes information already held by CQC, information submitted by the provider, observations made on the day, interviews with staff and patients, records reviewed during the inspection, and feedback from people using the service.

Rather than preparing for a specific list of questions, focus on demonstrating that you meet the regulations and have the evidence to support it. The best preparation is to ensure that your evidence is readily available, understood by staff, and shows how you deliver safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led care within your practice.

Key CQC changes - navigating with confidence