Healthcare Improvement Scotland: independent healthcare fees consultation

Effective regulation of independent healthcare is an important element in supporting public safety. We asked if you agreed that the regulation of independent healthcare services should continue to be funded through fees charged by HIS to private providers. We also asked if, given the increasing costs required to regulate independent healthcare, you agreed that the proposed maximum fees HIS can charge, as outlined in the consultation, was required. Finally, we asked, If you do not agree with the proposed maximum fee adjustment, what alternative approaches or strategies you believed would be fair and effective, and how should HIS address the challenges of the rising costs while minimising the impact on their stakeholders.

We received 105 responses, of which 83 were from individuals and 22 were from organisations. The majority of respondents identified themselves as being affiliated with an independent healthcare service, either identifying as the owner or working for such businesses. The responses we received showed a fairly even split between those who agreed that the regulation of independent healthcare services should continue to be funded through fees charged by HIS to private providers (46%) and those who did not (53%). 83% of respondents did not agree with the proposed maximum fees that HIS can charge for the commencement of the regulation of independent medical agencies. 87% of respondents did not agree that the increase to proposed maximum fees HIS can charge, as outlined in the consultation, is required given the increasing costs required to regulate independent healthcare. 50% of respondents who elected to add additional information suggested that non-healthcare professionals should also be registered with HIS. 34% of these respondents felt that fees should be based on the size of the business.

We have published all non-confidential responses to our consultation and the analysis of these responses. Direct links to these publications can be found below.

The response to the proposals was considered by Scottish Ministers. It was decided that the proposals are essential to ensure effective regulation of independent healthcare, which ensures public safety. It is vital that HIS has the necessary resources to fund its regulatory responsibilities, but in response to the large majority of respondents who did not agree with the proposals, we are proposing a reduced maximum fee cap in a number of areas. Further information can be found in our government response to the consultation analysis.