The independent regulator of health and social care in England
COVID-19 Update
25 March 2020
A weekly update for dental providers and professionals working in dental services, sharing the latest guidance on COVID-19 and CQC's approach during this period.
We understand that for many providers the current situation is unprecedented. Many are anxious not just about their own health and that of their families, but also about how their professional activities might impact on the potential spread of the COVID-19 virus.
There has been published information and guidance from NHS England, Public Health England and the Chief Dental Officer and the CQC position is that this information should be used when formulating the way forward for dental practice.
The Chief Dental Officer for England has responded to a request for clear practical guidance from the British Dental Association. The practical advice given reflects the current national position on reducing population risk and dental practices are invited to consider reducing routine appointments for those at risk, and reducing risks to staff by limiting what types of treatment are available in dental practice, in particular reducing the number of Aerosol Generating Procedures (AGP). Practitioners should also consider the potential risks of transmission of COVID-19 from asymptomatic patients. The document also contains relevant links to sources of advice and guidance.
As you know, routine inspections by CQC have now ceased. However, we regard it as extremely important that dental practices continue to operate safely for the benefit of the public, and by making this document available to all dental providers whether private, NHS or in mixed practice we hope to assist you at this difficult time.
We also want to take the opportunity to clarify that dental practices who are closing temporarily in response to COVID-19 are not required to submit a notification to CQC. A notification is only required if a practice is closing permanently.
Stay up to date with the latest CQC COVID-19 information
We're making changes to the way we work during the COVID-19 outbreak. We've developed a dedicated area on our website so that you can stay up to date with the latest information. Find out more.
Registration with CQC and changes to statements of purpose during COVID-19
We want to support health and social care providers as they look to increase capacity as part of the ongoing effort to respond to COVID-19. To help ensure that registration does not act as a barrier to these different ways of working, we have developed a special COVID-19 registration framework, which covers both new registrations and change to service that can be made by submitting a notification online.
Read the full update, which explains what constitutes a COVID-19 registration and what this means for providers.
What good looks like when using digital triage tools
Following Government advice to stay at home and limit movement where possible, we have taken the decision to close our offices. This means that from now, all communications and correspondence from us will be electronic. We ask that providers do not send post to us. We will continue to check post temporarily to allow for correspondence already sent to be collected.
In the event that we have to issue a formal notice, we will contact the provider by phone to discuss this and to confirm the approach for further contact. Providers are also reminded of their duty of care to people using their services. For those detained under the Mental Health Act, this may mean supporting people to access the internet or make telephone calls if they ask to contact us. Visit our website for contact information.
