- Keep Patient Notes Clear & Complete: Ensure all documentation includes treatment goals which are reviewed and altered as necessary. Be specific when you write your plan i.e. NOT review in 2 weeks! What are you reviewing? If it is better then what? If it is worse then what?
- Secure your Patient Info: Protect patient data by securing all devices (laptops, tablets, phones) with strong passwords and up-to-date security software.
- Stay Informed: Review Key Standards Quarterly: Dedicate 15 minutes each month to review your professional websites to stay current.
- Clear Informed Consent Every Time: Always obtain explicit verbal, or written consent where applicable, for treatment and assessments. Ensuring patients fully understand their care plan and options. Remember that a blanket signature on a form asking for consent for treatment (Add (?) before treatment) is invalid.
- Professional Development: 1 Item Per Month: Engage with one compliance-related article, webinar, or training session monthly to stay informed and enhance your knowledge. Write a reflective note and keep it in your portfolio.
Share this checklist with your team to ensure everyone is aligned on compliance best practices.
Partner of the Month: Nicola
A huge well done to Nicola, who achieved an impressive 97% compliance in her recent audit against all HCPC and CSP Standards and Regulations. Nicola has been with us for several years, and it’s been fantastic to see her deep understanding of how to evidence compliance evolve. She proudly displays her certification and reassures her patients that she runs a safe, ethical practice.
It’s true—physiotherapists aren’t directly inspected by external bodies like the CQC. But does that mean we can afford to be complacent or apathetic? As clinics, we aspire to be patient-centred and take pride in having everything in place to keep everyone safe. But is that really the case?
The general public often assumes that we are inspected, and we have a clear duty of care to demonstrate that we meet the standards that protect our patients and uphold the integrity of our profession.
Nicola’s dedication shows how compliance isn’t just a box to tick—it’s a commitment to patient safety, professionalism, and continuous improvement. Let’s all take inspiration from her this month!
👣 Ready to Dip Your Toe into an Audit?
We don’t bite! For us, success and pride come from helping you become consciously competent. Audits are an opportunity to see your progress, identify areas to grow, and showcase your commitment to safe, ethical practice.
So why not give it a try? Let’s work together to make compliance feel like a positive step forward—not a boring tick box chore!
