Care Quality Commission CQC
The CQC is the independent regulator of health and social care in England, and all dental practices have been required to be registered from April 2011.
They regulate:
- The NHS, local authorities, private companies and voluntary organisations. They aim to make sure better care is provided for everyone.
- Providers of medical and clinical treatment and care given to people of all ages, including treatment given in hospitals, ambulance services, and mental health services. They will eventually include primary care such as GP and dental practices.
- Providers of care services for adults in residential homes, in the community and in people’s own homes. We focus on people who find themselves in vulnerable circumstances, including those with mental health problems, learning disabilities, physical disabilities or long-term health conditions and older people.
- Providers of services for people whose rights are restricted under the Mental Health Act.
They have published the Essential standards of quality and safety which makes clear the outcomes they expect people to experience if the provider is compliant with the new regulations.
For further information please visit their website www.cqc.org.uk