Inspection Scoring Matrix
NIC INSPECTION SCORING MATRIX
**Technical Framework for Institutional Accreditation**
1. PURPOSE
This Inspection Scoring Matrix establishes a standardized, objective, and transparent method for evaluating care facilities seeking NIC accreditation or renewal. It ensures defensibility in all accreditation decisions.
2. INSPECTION METHODOLOGY
Inspections are conducted through a multi-dimensional assessment:
**Document Review**: Verification of legal and operational records.
**On-site Assessment**: Physical inspection of facility infrastructure.
**Interviews**: Structured engagement with management and caregivers.
**Direct Observation**: Hands-on evaluation of care delivery practices.
3. SCORING STRUCTURE
**Total Possible Score**: 100 points
**Weighting**: Each category carries a specific point weight based on its impact on care quality.
**Critical Failures**: Certain high-risk deficiencies may result in automatic non-compliance regardless of the total score.
4. CATEGORIES & WEIGHTING
A. Legal & Regulatory Compliance (15 Points)
Includes valid CAC registration, local government permits, and health regulation compliance.
**Critical Failure**: Operating without legal incorporation or with fraudulent documents.
B. Governance & Management (10 Points)
Evaluation of management structure, written institutional policies, and complaints handling systems.
C. Human Resources & Staffing (20 Points)
Verification of caregiver qualifications, NIC certifications, staffing ratios, and background checks.
**Critical Failure**: Employment of unqualified staff or evidence of staff misconduct.
D. Care Standards & Service Delivery (20 Points)
Assessment of individual care plans, medication safety, nutrition, and dignity practices.
**Critical Failure**: Any evidence of neglect, abuse, or life-threatening care practices.
E. Health, Safety & Environment (15 Points)
Sanitation standards, fire safety preparedness, infection control, and accessibility.
F. Facilities & Infrastructure (10 Points)
Appropriateness of sleeping arrangements, sanitation facilities, and common areas.
G. Record Keeping & Data Management (10 Points)
Accuracy of client records, medication logs, and incident tracking.
5. COMPLIANCE RATINGS
| Score Range | Accreditation Status | Regulatory Action |
| :--- | :--- | :--- |
| **85 – 100** | **Fully Compliant** | Full Accreditation (2-3 years) |
| **70 – 84** | **Conditionally Compliant** | Provisional Status; Mandatory Improvements |
| **50 – 69** | **Non-Compliant** | Accreditation Denied/Suspended |
| **Below 50** | **Seriously Deficient** | Immediate Enforcement Action |
6. AUTOMATIC NON-COMPLIANCE
Regardless of the numeric score, the following result in immediate **Non-Compliance**:
Any evidence of physical or emotional abuse.
Operating without statutory legal registration (CAC).
Falsification of documents or obstruction of NIC inspectors.
Severe fire or structural hazards.
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