PHECC Quality Review Framework (QRF) Compliance: A Guide for Training Providers in Ireland
Staying compliant with the PHECC Quality Review Framework (QRF) is essential for maintaining accreditation as a training provider in Ireland. The Pre-Hospital Emergency Care Council (PHECC) has introduced key updates designed to improve the quality of training and streamline certification processes. Two major developments—the Quality Review Framework (QRF) and Electronic Certificates (E-Certs)—are transforming the way Recognised Institutions (RIs), Approved Training Institutions (ATIs), and learners approach compliance and certification.
This guide breaks down these changes and explains their impact on training providers and learners.
✅ What is the PHECC Quality Review Framework (QRF)?
The PHECC Quality Review Framework (QRF) establishes clear standards for Recognised Institutions (RIs) and Approved Training Institutions (ATIs) to ensure compliance with PHECC guidelines. It offers a structured, transparent system for evaluating and improving training quality, ensuring consistent delivery across accredited providers in Ireland.
The Six Key Standards of the QRF:
Effective Governance – Ensures strong governance, regulatory compliance, and risk management.
Course Development & Maintenance – Requires structured curriculum development aligned with industry standards.
Delivery of Education – Verifies instructor competency and effective training delivery.
Student Support – Guarantees access to learning resources, reasonable accommodations, and structured feedback.
Assessment & Course Outcome Support – Standardises fair and transparent assessments to maintain training integrity.
Learning Organisation – Encourages continuous improvement through self-assessments, feedback, and data-driven enhancements.
Need help aligning with PHECC’s QRF? Our QA experts guide you through compliance, course development, and digital certification. Speak to an Expert.”
📝 Key Compliance Requirements Under the QRF:
To maintain PHECC accreditation, training providers must:
Demonstrate Robust Quality Assurance: Maintain strong policies and documented processes.
Conduct Self-Assessments & External Audits: Perform ongoing evaluations and participate in PHECC-led reviews.
Adopt Standardised Reporting: Use the Assessment Rating System to quantify compliance, ranging from “Not Met” to “Fully Met.”
Provide Evidence-Based Documentation: Keep detailed records proving compliance with PHECC standards.
Increase Transparency: Publish student policies and QRF compliance reports online.
Impact on Training Providers:
Strengthen governance structures to meet compliance requirements.
Maintain comprehensive policies and procedures.
Implement efficient data management systems to streamline reporting and audits.
While these measures may increase administrative tasks, they ultimately enhance training quality, credibility, and compliance across the healthcare sector.
💻 PHECC’s Transition to Electronic Certificates (E-Certs)
PHECC has introduced Electronic Certificates (E-Certs) to replace traditional paper certificates, improving security, efficiency, and accessibility.
What Are E-Certs?
E-Certs are secure digital credentials issued to learners upon successful course completion. They offer several benefits:
Enhanced Security: Digital verification reduces the risk of fraud.
Streamlined Certification Management: Providers can issue and manage certificates electronically, eliminating paperwork.
Improved Accessibility: Learners can access their certifications anytime, from any device.
Real-Time Employer Verification: Employers can instantly verify staff credentials online.
Benefits for Training Providers & Learners:
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Faster Issuance | Learners receive certifications instantly, reducing delays |
| Digital Verification | Employers can verify credentials via PHECC’s secure system |
| Environmentally Friendly | Reduces paper waste and printing costs |
| Improved Record-Keeping | Simplifies certificate management and retrieval |
| Tamper-Proof Security | Prevents loss, damage, and fraudulent certification |
💼 How These Changes Affect Learners & Employers
For Learners:
📌 Instant Access to Qualifications: No more waiting for printed certificates.
📌 Seamless Sharing with Employers: Digital certificates can be emailed or stored on cloud platforms.
For Employers:
📌 Faster Compliance Checks: Verify credentials instantly through PHECC’s system.
📌 Reduced Risk of Fraudulent Certifications: E-Certs ensure only genuine qualifications are recognised.
🚀 How CQAS Can Help Your Institution Stay Compliant
Navigating PHECC compliance and transitioning to E-Certs can feel overwhelming, but that’s where we come in. At CQAS, we’re not just compliance experts—we’re your partners in quality assurance. With extensive experience in TAQA compliance, we bring practical insights and hands-on support to help your institution meet PHECC standards and beyond.
💡 Need Expert Help?
Want to make sure your training institution ticks every compliance box? Contact CQAS today for a consultation!
Ready to make the switch to digital certification? Book a call with our compliance specialists!
Don’t leave compliance to chance—Let us help you secure your PHECC accreditation!
📢 Stay Ahead of PHECC Compliance in 2025!
Partner with CQAS and gain the confidence of knowing your training institution is always audit-ready. Our tailored solutions make it easier to maintain accreditation, deliver top-quality training, and issue secure digital certifications that both learners and employers can trust.
👉 Get in touch today and let us help you lead the way in healthcare education in Ireland!**
