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Peer Review
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Training Activities

HQS has become increasingly involved in training for peer review and inspection processes. This has built on HQS in house training and selection expertise developed over the past twelve years. With some adaptation and development this has been successfully transferred to the training of peer reviewers and inspection regimes for schemes outside HQS.

Initially HQS was approached by the National Cancer Action Team to guide them on the training requirements for the assessment of the National Cancer Standards as part of NHS Cancer Plan. HQS has now delivered over thirty training events to senior healthcare professionals working in cancer services to prepare them to assess the adult, paediatric oncology centre, paediatric shared care and intrathecal standards. In addition, HQS is currently involved in peer review training for the London Breast Screening Quality Assurance Programme working with Dr Ros Given-Wilson, Director of Training for one of the National Training Centres based at St George's Hospital.

HQS has worked with the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority to review the way in which inspectors for the authority are recruited, selected, trained, monitored as they carry out inspections and the on-going information and up-date training that is required. At the end of 2002 we worked with the Authority to facilitate two up-date days for existing inspectors. In February this year we facilitated an assessment centre for the selection of new inspectors. This involved a rigorous assessment process to ensure that inspectors have the requisite skills to effectively perform the inspection function.

With regard to primary care, for several years HQS has been providing peer review training for two local quality improvement schemes, Leicestershire Blueprint and Sheffield Commitment to Quality for primary care practices.

The aim of all the training events is to provide participants with an understanding of the techniques required, whether this is for internal audit, peer review assessment or inspection. We work with the organisation commissioning the training to ensure that we put over the philosophy which underpins their approach and the required skills and application. This involves simulating aspects of the assessment process and giving participants the opportunity to practice the necessary skills. In addition, the content of the training includes identifying evidence required to assess compliance, the assessment of documentation and statutory regulations, analysis of information gathered, carrying out assessment interviews, delivering feedback and report writing.

For further information about HQS training activities contact Tracy Steadman, 020 7389 1000 or email tsteadman@hqs.org.uk