Navigating and Responding to CQC Reports: Raising Factual Inaccuracies via the New Portal
For those of us working in regulated health and social care services, responding to a CQC draft report is a vital and time-sensitive process — one that can significantly impact a service’s reputation, morale, and future outcomes.
With the introduction of the new CQC provider portal, many are finding the process less than user-friendly.
Raising factual inaccuracies has always been a critical opportunity to challenge incorrect statements or misleading context before a report is finalised. However, under the new system, uploading evidence, referencing specific statements, and ensuring responses are acknowledged has become more complex and frustrating for providers trying to get it right.
Here are a few practical tips for navigating this process:
- Download and annotate the draft report offline first – mark every area that requires challenge or clarification.
- Cross-reference every factual inaccuracy with dated, auditable evidence – be precise and unemotional.
- Keep a log of what you upload – the system does not always clearly show what has been submitted.
- Take screenshots of your submissions in case there are issues down the line.
- Ensure your response tone remains professional – it is easy to be reactive, but being strategic and evidence-led is key.
If you are struggling with the new system or want support preparing your factual accuracy response, don’t hesitate to reach out. Getting this stage right can be the difference between a fair outcome and a misrepresentation of the quality of care you provide.
