How to Register Your Private Clinic with CQC

Understand whether CQC registration is required

CQC registration is required if your service provides a "regulated activity" as defined by the Health and Social Care Act 2008. For private clinics and prescribers, this typically applies if you are providing treatment, diagnostic or screening procedures, or surgical procedures. Independent prescribing alone — without a regulated clinical activity — may not require CQC registration. Always take professional legal advice to confirm your position.

Choose your legal entity and nominated individual

CQC registers services operated by a legal entity — a limited company, partnership, or sole trader. You must also appoint a Nominated Individual (NI): a senior person legally responsible for overseeing quality and safety. The NI must be an officer of the registered provider and is personally accountable to CQC.

Prepare your Statement of Purpose

Your Statement of Purpose (SoP) is a formal document describing what services you provide, who for, at which location, and how. CQC will assess this document against your application. It must be accurate, specific, and kept up to date throughout your registration. Any material change requires notification to CQC.

Build your clinical governance framework

CQC inspectors assess providers against the five key questions: Safe, Effective, Caring, Responsive, and Well-led. You must have documented policies, procedures, and evidence for each domain before applying. This is the most time-intensive preparation step — allow at least 4–8 weeks.

Register via the CQC Provider Portal

Registration is completed online through the CQC Provider Portal. You will complete separate applications for the provider entity and for each registered manager. The process requires detailed information about the provider, the Nominated Individual, all regulated activities, and all locations. CQC aims to process straightforward applications within 10 weeks.

Prepare for your registration assessment

CQC may conduct a registration assessment — either via telephone or a site visit — before granting registration. An inspector will speak with the Nominated Individual and/or Registered Manager to assess whether you understand your responsibilities and have the systems in place to deliver safe, effective care.

Maintain ongoing compliance after registration

Registration is not a one-time event. CQC expects continuous compliance. You must notify CQC of material changes, submit an annual Provider Information Return, and be prepared for unannounced inspections at any time. Digital systems — including electronic clinical records, audit trails, and incident reporting — significantly reduce the burden of ongoing compliance.

Does GetClinic help with CQC compliance?

Yes. GetClinic provides an append-only audit trail, structured consultation notes, incident reporting, and role-based access control — all features that directly support the evidence CQC expects to see. GetClinic does not provide CQC compliance advice, but the platform is designed to make maintaining evidence significantly easier.

How long does CQC registration take?

CQC aims to decide straightforward applications within 10 weeks of receiving a complete application. Complex applications or those requiring additional assessment may take longer. Preparing your policies and governance framework before applying typically takes 4–8 weeks.

Do I need a Registered Manager separate from the Nominated Individual?

The same person can be both the Nominated Individual and the Registered Manager, provided they meet the fit person criteria for both roles. For smaller clinics, this is common. Larger organisations often appoint separate individuals.

What regulated activities require CQC registration?

Key regulated activities include: treatment of disease, disorder or injury; diagnostic and screening procedures; surgical procedures; family planning; and maternity and midwifery services. Independent prescribing as a standalone activity may not require registration — but if combined with any of the above, it will. Always confirm with a healthcare regulatory solicitor.

Can I practise while my CQC application is pending?

No. Providing regulated activities without registration is a criminal offence under the Health and Social Care Act 2008. You must be registered before you start providing regulated activities at your location.