Key Questions Explained: Effective

The CQC inspectors study five different areas to ensure that any care provider is meeting the appropriate standards.

Here we take a look at the ‘Effective’ section of the CQC standards to find out what ‘Effective’ care means and how you can make sure your service is effective.

What does “Effective” Mean?

Anyone can offer some level of care, but if your patients are going to receive the best levels of service, then that care needs to be ‘Effective’. This means that any care, treatment and support that is offered can achieve good outcomes and help the patient to maintain the best available quality of life. This should all be based on the best available evidence, so patient records and medical histories must be taken into account, as well as thorough discussions with the patient and their family if necessary.

How do you make sure your service is “Effective”?

For your care be deemed ‘Effective’ in line with the CQC standards, you must be able to demonstrate that your service will be able to consistently deliver positive outcomes for the people that use it. Providers need to ensure that all care and support is based on the latest best practice guidance and that staff are fully trained, skilled and supported to meet individual needs. To do this, you will need to carry out regular assessments of your patient’s health and well-being, and tailor any care plans to reflect their changing circumstances. It is also essential to work collaboratively with other health and social care professionals.

In order for the CQC to view a service as ‘Effective’, it needs to be able to promote choice, independence and decision-making that can empower patients to take an active role in their own care. They must also be able to show that they can monitor outcomes in order to drive the continuous improvement that the CQC are looking for.

Effective Quality Statements

The ‘Effective; key question has the following quality statements which need to be met:

• Assessing needs
• Delivering evidence-based care treatment
• How staff, teams and services work together
• Supporting people to live healthier lives
• Monitoring and improving outcomes
• Consent to care and treatment

What does the CQC look for in the “Effective” key question?

The CQC will look for care providers who are able to ensure continuous improvement of their services. You should be aiming to offer positive and consistent outcomes that are in line with clinical standards and the expectations of the individuals they are providing care to.

The CQC will check patient records to ensure that staff are always discussing the reason for appointments or treatment with the patient and that they are clear on the patient’s medical history. There also needs to be evidence of up-to-date CPD training on relevant medical advances so that staff are able to clearly explain any treatment options, as well as any relevant costs. This will ensure that the patient is fully informed and able to make a decision on what treatment route is best for them.

The CQC will also look at any policies and procedures on discrimination so that they can be confident patients are making decisions about treatment without being discriminated against on the basis of age, gender, gender identity, disability, race, religion, belief, or sexuality.

There will also need to be thorough data protection policies when transferring information to specialist services as part of a referral.

Delivering an effective service is about ensuring that people consistently Receive the care and support that will meet their needs and promote positive outcomes through best practise. This means focusing on skilled staff, personalised care planning, strong partnerships and continuous improvement.

Need some help?

Here at Delphi Care we have to knowledge and expertise to help your service meet the standards for ‘Outstanding’ care. Our team is made up of former CQC inspectors and ex registered managers, with over 200 collective years’ experience of working in the health and social care sector.

Whether you require our consultancy services, mock inspections, or crisis management and turnaround, we’re here to help! Simply contact us today on 0330 133 3002 or email us at customer-care@delphi.care.