Department of Health consultation on draft Fundamental Standards of Care

The Department of Health is consulting on draft regulations which would introduce Fundamental Standards of Care for which all providers must meet. The consultation covers a range of topics, including mandatory complaints procedures, introducing ‘person-centred’ care which encompasses measures such as ensuring patients are always fully informed about their care plans, and ensuring that premises are clean and safe.

The consultation does not, however, cover the proposed Duty of Candour or Fit and Proper Persons requirement for Directors of providers registered with the CQC.

The draft regulations are due to come into force on 1 October 2014, with this Consultation open until 4 April 2014. The Department is seeking views on whether the proposed standards go far enough, or seek to place too much of a burden on providers.