The Francis Report--implications for the regulator.

The professional regulators were identified in the Francis Report as having a central role in maintaining fundamental standards of care. This paper describes the key themes in the Report and the importance of regulatory powers to ensure that the serious failings in patient care highlighted by the Mid-Staffs Inquiry cannot be repeated. The central role of the GDC Standards in the profession's response to the Francis Report is stressed. Clinical Relevance: The importance of our professional regulator in ensuring adherence to fundamental standards of care is a central tenet of clinical dentistry.