The HCP Scheme is a health care professional (HCP) registration scheme in the United Kingdom. It was introduced in 2010 as part of the Health and Social Care Act 2008 and is managed by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). The aim of the scheme is to ensure that all HCPs are registered and properly regulated in order to provide safe and effective care for patients and service users.
The HCP Scheme is made up of three levels of registration: the HCPC Register, the HCPC Professional Register and the HCPC Safeguarding Register. The HCPC Register holds the details of all HCPs who are registered with the HCPC. It also provides information about their qualifications and relevant experience. The HCPC Professional Register holds the details of HCPs who have been assessed as competent to practice safely and effectively. The HCPC Safeguarding Register holds the details of HCPs who have been assessed as competent to practice safely and effectively and who have been approved to work with vulnerable adults or children.
What Are The Benefits Of HCP Scheme?
The HCP Scheme is designed to provide assurance to the public that all HCPs are qualified and competent to practice safely and effectively. It also provides assurance to employers that their HCPs are properly qualified and competent to practice safely and effectively.
By registering with the HCPC, HCPs demonstrate their commitment to the highest standards of practice. This in turn helps to protect the public and the HCPs themselves. The HCPC also provides a range of support services to HCPs, including guidance on professional standards and practice, access to professional development opportunities and advice on legal and ethical matters.
How Does HCP Scheme Work?
The HCP Scheme is managed by the HCPC. All HCPs who wish to practice in the UK must be registered with the HCPC. The HCPC sets the standards for entry onto the register and the criteria for the assessment of competence. All HCPs must meet the HCPC standards for entry onto the register and must also successfully complete a competency assessment prior to registration.
The competency assessment consists of both a practical and a theoretical assessment. The practical assessment is designed to assess the HCPs ability to practice safely and effectively in their chosen specialism. The theoretical assessment is designed to assess the HCPs knowledge and understanding of the relevant professional standards and guidelines.
What Is The Cost Of HCP Scheme?
The cost of registration with the HCPC varies depending on the type of HCP and the length of time they wish to remain registered. The standard fee for registration is £128 and the fee for re-registration is £50. However, there are discounts available for those who wish to register for longer periods of time.
What Happens If An HCP Is Removed From The Register?
If an HCP is removed from the register, they will no longer be able to practice as an HCP in the UK. This means they will be unable to work in any role that requires registration with the HCPC and any HCPC approved qualifications.
Conclusion
The HCP Scheme is an important scheme that helps ensure the public are receiving safe and effective care from qualified and competent professionals. It provides assurance to employers that their HCPs are properly qualified and competent to practice safely and effectively. The HCPC also provides a range of support services to HCPs, including guidance on professional standards and practice, access to professional development opportunities and advice on legal and ethical matters. The cost of registration with the HCPC is reasonable and there are discounts available for those who wish to register for longer periods of time.
