When we will inspect urgent care services

Our inspection activity will focus on where there is risk. Read our update on our regulatory approach and how we will assess services.

Announcing inspections

Inspections are usually announced. We feel that this is the most appropriate way to make sure our inspections do not disrupt the care you provide.

When we announce inspections, we will usually give you a minimum of two weeks’ notice. The inspector will telephone you to announce the inspection and also send a letter to confirm the date.

Throughout the inspection process, the lead inspector will support and communicate with you by letter, email and telephone to help you to prepare for the day and know what to expect.

Unannounced inspections

We may also carry out an unannounced inspection, for example if we are responding to a particular issue or concern. This may be something identified at a previous inspection that we are following up, or new information.

At the start of these visits, the inspection team will meet with a member of your management team, and will feed back at the end of the inspection if there are any immediate concerns.