CQC inspection readiness checklist

How to use this checklist

Tick each item when the evidence is in place and easy to find. Give each section a named owner.

Safe

• Safeguarding policies for children and adults are current, with a named lead and up-to-date staff training records
• Recruitment files include DBS checks, references, ID, registration and immunisation status where required
• Emergency medicines and equipment are checked and logged on a regular schedule (see our emergency kit checklist)
• Defibrillator, oxygen and pulse oximeter checks are recorded
• Vaccine fridge temperatures are recorded every working day, with a cold chain breach procedure on display
• Infection prevention and control audit completed in the last 12 months, with actions followed up
• Cleaning schedules are in place for clinical rooms and are signed off
• Clinical waste and sharps are segregated, stored securely and collected by a licensed contractor
• Significant events and incidents are recorded, discussed and learned from
• Medicines and patient safety alerts are received, actioned and recorded
• Health and safety, fire and legionella risk assessments are in date

Effective

• Clinical audits show improvement over time
• Staff appraisals and mandatory training are up to date
• Clinicians follow current evidence-based guidance, with a way to share updates
• Patient outcomes data has been reviewed and acted on
• Coordinated care with community teams, care homes and other services is documented

Caring

• Patient feedback (surveys, Friends and Family Test, reviews) is collected and discussed
• Chaperone policy is in place and patients are told about it
• Privacy is protected at reception and in consulting rooms
• Carers are identified and signposted to support

Responsive

• Access arrangements are clear for all patient groups, including reasonable adjustments
• Complaints are logged, answered on time and learned from
• Appointment availability is monitored and adjusted to demand
• Information is available in accessible formats and other languages

Well-led

• A clear vision and strategy that staff know about
• Governance meetings are minuted, with actions tracked
• Policies are version-controlled and reviewed on schedule
• Business continuity plan is tested and up to date
• Staff feel able to raise concerns (Freedom to Speak Up arrangements)
• The practice registration details on the CQC website are correct

Action plan