CQC not fit for purpose

Health Secretary Wes Streeting has declared that the Care Quality Commission (CQC) is 'not fit for purpose' following a damning independent review that revealed significant internal failings, including a lack of inspections and clinical expertise. The review, led by Dr. Penny Dash, found that around one in five health and care providers had never received a rating and that some had not been inspected for over a decade. Streeting expressed shock at the extent of these failings, emphasizing the need for immediate action to restore public confidence and improve oversight of the CQC. He announced the appointment of Professor Sir Mike Richards to review the CQC's assessment framework and committed to increasing government oversight. Streeting also noted that the culture within the CQC, rather than funding, is a critical issue that requires urgent reform. The revelations come at a time when the NHS is already facing significant challenges, further highlighting the importance of effective regulation in health and social care.