Clinical searches

The CQC routinely uses a set of clinical searches, based on national guidance, good practice and the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency’s safety advice when they inspect GP practices.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, the CQC explored innovative ways to reduce risk and minimise time spent on site, whilst continuing to regulate GP practices. In 2021, the CQC announced their intention to stop using the Quality and Outcomes Framework’s data for “at least” a year.

The CQC commenced the pilot of new clinical searches at the start of the pandemic, officially becoming part of the CQC’s routine inspection activity from 1 April this year.