Practising Privileges explained (and when you don’t need CQC)

Practising privileges are mentioned a lot when doctors start exploring private practice, but the term often causes confusion. In this conversation, Dr Matthew Wickham and Dr David Hindmarsh break down what practising privileges actually mean, how they relate to CQC registration, and when clinicians can work under someone else’s governance structure. They discuss how practising privileges work in both private clinics and NHS environments, why CQC registration is granted to a responsible person rather than a building, and what responsibilities come with that role. They also explore situations where CQC registration may not be required, and why it’s important to understand the difference between regulated and non-regulated activities before setting up services. For doctors considering private work, clinics, or digital services, understanding where CQC regulation applies is an essential starting point. Timestamps 00:00 – What are practising privileges? 00:25 – How practising privileges relate to CQC 01:18 – NHS example: locums and governance 01:51 – Responsibilities of the CQC-registered person 02:44 – Environment requirements for regulated activity 03:19 – Why you can’t “rent” a CQC space 04:13 – Online services and CQC registration 05:22 – When CQC registration may not be required 06:33 – Occupational health and non-regulated work 07:38 – Getting help with CQC applications Got questions about private practice or setting up services? Dr Matthew Wickham – matthew@docsupport.co.uk Explore more tools, guides, and support for doctors: 🔗 https://www.docsupport.co.uk