In its new strategy the regulator committed itself to ensuring that by 2020 all new registrations will be risk assessed against set criteria, recognising practices’ track records on safety and quality.
Mick Armstrong, chair of the BDA, said:
"We are winning the argument for a streamlined approach to registration. At present any change to a practice, like moving from a sole trader to a limited company, prompts an interview or site visit – even if it has no bearing on patient care. The CQC have now pledged to deliver a more flexible approach, and we intend to hold them to it.
"We look forward to working with the regulator to ensure we see an efficient, targeted registration process that reflects the everyday choices dentists are having to make."