What are the CQC's five key questions?

The five key questions posed by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) are essential for assessing healthcare providers, including dental practices. These questions are designed to ensure that care is not only effective but also meets the standards required for safety, responsiveness, and quality. Among the options provided, the question about safety is pivotal because it directly addresses the fundamental concern in healthcare: ensuring that patients are protected from harm and receive care in a safe environment.

Focusing on safety encompasses various aspects, such as the control of infections, the handling of medical equipment, the proper administration of treatments, and the maintenance of a secure environment for both patients and staff. A practice that prioritizes safety demonstrates commitment to high standards of care, fostering trust in the provider while minimizing risks associated with dental procedures.

The other options, while potentially relevant to healthcare, do not represent the CQC's specific criteria as effectively as the question regarding safety does. Efficiency, empathy, and operational aspects, while important, do not capture the critical safety component that is integral to patient care standards as mandated by the CQC.