CQC report highlights failings in NHS care standards

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has published its first full analysis of performance and risk in NHS health and social care, based on findings taken from unannounced inspections of more than 14,000 English locations.

As of March 31st 2012, 72 percent of adult social care organisations were found to be meeting essential quality and safety standards, as were 77 percent of NHS services and 82 percent of independent healthcare providers.

The most common problem areas included poor management of medicines and their associated risks, a lack of staff or adequate support for workers, and the keeping of incomplete or insecure medical records.

Moreover, the safety and suitability of premises was highlighted as an issue of growing concern to inspectors, particularly in the social care sector.

CQC deputy chief executive Jill Finney said the information will help guide the commission's future inspections, but added that providers should also "look closely at this report in order to assure themselves that they are taking all steps necessary to protect people from poor care".

Earlier this week, the organisation published a national report finding that half of learning disability services are not meeting the required standards.