THE CHALLENGE
Mottingham, Downham, and Chislehurst Primary Care Network (MDC PCN) is made up of two GP practices: The Chislehurst Partnership and The Links Medical Practice. As a forward-thinking PCN, MDC is committed to enhancing neighbourhood working and expanding access to care through a new model that emphasises integrated, hub-based services. However, their existing estate posed a significant barrier to delivering this vision.
MDC PCN was operating across four GP practice premises—none of which were dedicated PCN-owned or managed space. This meant they lacked the physical capacity and autonomy to implement their model of care. Without dedicated premises, it was challenging to coordinate multidisciplinary working, expand services, or provide a suitable environment for Additional Roles Reimbursement Scheme (ARRS) staff—making recruitment and retention more difficult.
Compounding this was the nature of their patient population: older age groups, high levels of deprivation, and a high prevalence of long-term conditions. This made the need for integrated, localised services even more pressing.
THE SOLUTION
White Horse Hill was identified as the preferred new site. The premises offered:
- A cost-effective leasing option
- A site already set up to deliver clinical services
- A central location between the two GP practices, supporting equitable access and PCN-wide integration
This would be MDC PCN’s first dedicated site, unlocking the ability to deliver on their care model and scale services in line with population needs.
BAXCQC SUPPORT
To occupy White Horse Hill and deliver services independently, MDC PCN needed to register as a new provider with the Care Quality Commission (CQC). This was a key enabler that required strong governance, preparation, and policy documentation.
BAXCQC supported the PCN end-to-end, including:
- Clarifying the roles and responsibilities of the Registered Manager (RM) and Nominated Individual (NI)
- Providing interview coaching and preparation to build the RM and NI’s confidence and readiness for CQC interviews
- Drafting and reviewing all required policies and procedures, ensuring full compliance with CQC registration requirements
THE OUTCOME
MDC PCN is now successfully registered with the CQC as a provider and preparing to begin service delivery from White Horse Hill—its first dedicated PCN space.
This marks a major milestone in their journey to delivering neighbourhood-based care, expanding their multidisciplinary team, and improving health outcomes for their local population.
With a strengthened governance model and the autonomy that comes with provider status, MDC PCN is now well-positioned to meet both current and future needs with greater flexibility, resilience, and impact.
PARTNERS
