# CQC assessment approach: pilots run, provider portal to be rebuilt

> CQC has piloted draft sector frameworks over the summer and is rebuilding its provider portal. Current guidance still applies for now.

- Published: 27 Aug 2026
- Type: News
- Topic: CQC
- For: Practice managers, PCN leads
- Applies to: England
- Review: Reviewed by the Abtrace team
- Web page: https://ontherecord.abtrace.com/posts/cqc-new-assessment-approach-progress/

## What's changed

- CQC drafted separate assessment frameworks by sector, including one for primary care and community services. Feedback on the drafts closed on 12 June 2026.
- Voluntary pilots of the new approach ran from June to October 2026, with final evaluation planned for November 2026. Pilot judgements do not affect a provider's rating.
- On 27 Aug 2026 CQC said its board had approved plans to rebuild its digital services, including the provider portal, and to develop new frameworks, guidance and methods. It plans sector-specific engagement in the autumn.

## Who it affects

All CQC-registered GP practices in England. No date has been given for the new frameworks to take effect.

## What to do

- Carry on preparing against CQC's current published guidance until CQC confirms a start date for the new approach.
- Read the draft primary care and community services framework so the changes are not a surprise.
- Sign up to CQC provider bulletins to hear about the autumn engagement and the portal changes.
- Tell your practice team that pilot activity does not change existing ratings.

## Sources

- [CQC: Rebuilding our regulatory approach and digital services](https://www.cqc.org.uk/about-us/improving-how-we-work/0826-update)
- [CQC: Piloting, testing and evaluation of new assessment method](https://www.cqc.org.uk/about-us/improving-how-we-work/0626-update)
- [CQC: Give your views on draft sector-specific assessment frameworks](https://www.cqc.org.uk/about-us/how-we-involve-you/consultations/give-your-views-draft-sector-specific-assessment-frameworks)

Published by Abtrace on On the Record (https://ontherecord.abtrace.com/). Summaries only; always check the linked source.