Anticipating the Francis Inquiry report

What will the Francis Inquiry report consider?

We know that Robert Francis is likely to consider a range of issues in his final report including:

• how to embed the patient voice throughout the system
• how to engage health care staff generally in the leadership and management of their organisations
• the standards set for the safety and quality of care, and who should have the responsibility for setting and enforcing them
• the role of foundation trust governors and members, and other local public, patient and staff representatives
• the collection, use and sharing of information and data.

What are we doing around the Francis report?

Over many years The King's Fund has looked in detail at the issues raised in this inquiry. In anticipation of the report, a number of experts from The King's Fund have considered these issues, what they will mean for the NHS, and what needs to change in the health system to protect patients.

We hope that after the publication of the report, those who want to learn the lessons of Mid Staffs and to improve the experience and quality of patient care, will find our resources and programmes of value to them.

Our views on the Francis Inquiry report

Anna Dixon on the role of the regulator

With the Francis Inquiry report due shortly, Dr Anna Dixon, Director of Policy at The King's Fund, discusses the role of the regulator and looks at how care quality can be improved.

• Read Anna's article on regulation

Bev Fitzsimons on improving the quality of care for patients

The forthcoming Francis report is likely to provide a salutary reminder of the impact on patients when staff either don't or can't put patients at the heart of what they do.

• Read Bev's article on quality of care

Joanna Goodrich on improving the quality of care for frail older people

Joanna Goodrich looks at the changes that can be made at all levels to significantly improve older people’s experience of care.

• Read Joanna's article on quality of care