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Large trusts face bigger CQC fees under new plans

The CQC could make major changes to the way it charges providers, focusing more heavily on the turnover of organisations to inform payments.

Plans for the new system have been opened to consultation by the regulator as they try to raise money to compensate for the reduction in grant-in-aid given by the government.

Updated proposals would see 75% of individual trusts paying less in fees but the largest 25% would have increased payments.

The changes have been mooted because the commission has reached the “full chargeable cost recovery” for most of the regulated providers. The only exception to this is the adult social care sector which has another year before it will hit the planned limit.

The CQC has introduced the measures in the same week it confirmed that most trusts would see less inspections in future. As a result, the decision has raised questions among feepayers.

Amber Jabbal, head of policy at NHS Providers, commented: “While we welcome the fact that the majority of trusts will see a reduction in their fees under the CQC’s proposals, some trusts could see a huge fee hike at the same time as the CQC reduces the number of inspections it carries out.

“In these instances, it does not feel proportionate for all trusts and will add great pressure at a time when providers are already operating in a climate of significant financial challenge.

“As providers begin to bear more of the costs of regulation directly, it is essential that they are appropriately funded through the tariff and other payment mechanisms to pay for fee increases.”

Jabbal also took time to clarify the importance of the CQC, calling the organisation “fundamental” in meeting national standards.

Fees for general practice are also set to rise under the new plans. Fees would be based around the number of registered patients rather than locations, as was the previous system.

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