The regulation of independent healthcare in Scotland
What we do
Healthcare Improvement Scotland regulates independent healthcare
services in Scotland. We took over these responsibilities from
the Care Commission on 1st April 2011.
Services we regulate
Healthcare Improvement Scotland is currently responsible for
regulating independent hospitals, voluntary hospices, and private
psychiatric hospitals. Regulation of independent
clinics, independent medical agencies and independent
ambulance services has not yet commenced.
The Scottish Government consulted on the
future arrangements for regulation of independent healthcare
services, including the definition and scope of the services that
should be regulated last year and are currently considering the way
forward. Further information is available from the Scottish
Government by contacting Richard Dimelow on 0131 244 5184
or by email richard.dimelow@scotland.gsi.gov.uk
Announced and unannounced inspections
We regulate independent healthcare by inspecting services to
ensure that they comply with standards and regulations. Our team of
inspectors check independent healthcare services regularly, using
announced and unannounced inspections.
We use an open and transparent method for inspecting and
reporting on our findings, using standardised processes.
Legislation and guidelines
In order to regulate independent healthcare, Healthcare
Improvement Scotland works to the following legislation and
guidelines:
