27.09.13
CQC inspection regime delays FT assessment
Monitor has stopped the process of granting Foundation Trust status until the introduction of the CQC’s new inspection regime next year, the regulator has announced.
The CQC has already introduced its new approach for acute trusts and is developing methodology to pilot new inspections for FTs in the new year. Applicant trusts closest to entering the application process for FT status, or in the process, will be prioritised for the updated inspections once they begin.
Monitor will continue to work with trusts currently in assessment to focus on areas where early identification of issues will be the most beneficial, and will move to the second phase of assessment once the CQC inspection has been completed.
Miranda Carter, executive director of assessment at Monitor said: “We know that these changes to the assessment system are difficult, particularly for trusts currently going through the process. But the public expects us to be sure that trusts are ready for foundation trust status from a quality of care and financial perspective.
“We’ve worked closely with our partners at the CQC and the NHS TDA to try and limit any delay, and are continuing to work with aspirant trusts.”
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