Working in partnership: Getting the best from inspection, audit ...

Objective fiveInspections are independent, consistentand fairPractice 5.1Consistent standards for those providing careInspecting bodies inspect against transparent standards and criteria forassessment that apply, as far as practical, to all providers of health andsocial care within the remit of inspections.Practice 5.2Consistent standards for inspecting bodiesInspecting bodies determine their criteria for assessment in line with nationalstandards and take account of the standards or criteria set by other inspectingbodies. Inspecting bodies use existing groups and mechanisms to coordinatetheir standards in particular areas, or establish arrangements for ensuringmaximum consistency in the use of standards and criteria. As noted in 1.5,where standards or criteria overlap, inspecting bodies develop reliance oneach others’ findings, or review their inspection requirements or remit.Practice 5.3Evidence-based standards and criteriaInspecting bodies base their standards or criteria on published researchwhere this is available. They explain how compliance with criteria will meetthe needs of patients, carers, other people who use services or, whereappropriate, staff or bring about other improvements such as better value formoney. Standards and criteria are continuously reviewed and revised, asnecessary, in consultation with others who have an interest.Concordat Getting the best from inspection, audit, review and regulation of health and social care May 2006 15