Health and Social Care Act 2022

The Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) (Amendment) (Coronavirus) (No. 2) Regulations 2022 introduce a series of targeted changes designed to support providers during the ongoing public health emergency. These amendments build on earlier Coronavirus regulations, ensuring that essential services maintain flexibility while upholding safety and quality standards.

Overview

Effective Date: 26 March 2022
Scope: England-wide
Purpose: To amend regulations under the Health and Social Care Act 2008, granting the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and regulated providers adjusted powers and temporary easements in response to the coronavirus pandemic.

Key Amendments

These Regulations make several pivotal changes:

• Extension of Notification Periods: Providers now have an extended timeframe to notify the CQC of significant incidents and changes in circumstances.
• Temporary Staffing Flexibilities: Enabling the use of registered professionals across additional regulated activities without full re-registration, alleviating workforce pressures.
• Inspection Protocol Adjustments: Introducing remote or hybrid inspection models where on-site visits would compromise infection control measures.

Impact on Providers

Under these amendments, regulated providers should note the following:

1. Record-keeping Requirements: Although some timeframes are extended, accurate records must still be maintained to demonstrate compliance.
2. Staffing Registrations: Providers may deploy registered professionals to additional activities, but must notify the CQC of any extended roles.
3. Quality Assurance: Even under remote inspection provisions, service quality and patient safety remain paramount.

For guidance on how these changes interact with existing fee structures under the CQC, see our article on Health and Social Care Act 2008 Registration Fees Regulations 2021.

Further Resources

Providers seeking more detailed information should review:

• CQC Coronavirus Amendment Regulations 2022
• Regulated Activities (Coronavirus Amendments) 2021
• UK Government: Coronavirus Guidance

Stay compliant: Ensure your organisation regularly reviews these amendments and integrates updated procedures to maintain service quality and protect public health.

workersofengland.co.uk | Independent Workers Trade Union