A model for clinical governance in primary care groups

Abstract

Clinical governance is central to the NHS quality programme, but how it will operate in primary care groups remains unclear. Although many activities included in the new concept of clinical governance are already being undertaken, these need to be coordinated. A model of governance that addresses the core tasks of defining, accounting for, and improving quality and incorporates evidence on effective methods of changing performance is suggested. This model can improve professional, practice, and primary care group performance. It shows how groups can introduce and develop clinical governance and how health authorities and the Commission for Health Improvement can monitor progress.