Healthcare Improvement Scotland publishes updated Enforcement Policy

Healthcare Improvement Scotland (HIS), the regulator for independent healthcare services in Scotland, published an updated version of its Enforcement Policy.

It became law for private independent clinics with practising doctors, nurses or dentists to register with the body in April 2017. However, a significant number are still yet to register. Enforcement action will begin in the next few months against those clinics that continue to avoid registration. This could lead to criminal proceedings being actioned against them and could result in a fine of up to £5,000 or even a prison sentence for those found guilty.

HIS is now urging clinics that think they should be registered to contact them to avoid prosecution. Enforcement action may also be taken against clinics that are registered with HIS but that do not operate to an appropriate standard. Those that are not up to par may have their registration revoked unless significant improvement is demonstrated within a specific timescale.

To read the Enforcement Policy, visit the HIS website healthcareimprovementscotland.org.