Clinical audit is organised peer review of both the medical and scientific practice of pathology, comparing that practice with predetermined standards. It is defined by the Department of Health as
"the systematic critical analysis of the quality of clinical care including procedures for diagnosis and treatment, the resources used and the resulting outcome and quality of life for the patient."
to achieve continuous improvement of all aspects of a clinical service. |
The audit group was started in 1993, organising 2 meetings per year. Subjects are chosen by clinical biochemists and the selected topics are surveyed throughout Wales, audited and best practice guidelines produced by one or two lead people. A committee is now responsible for organising inter-hospital clinical audit activities for clinical biochemistry throughout Wales. The committee reviews questionnaires, organises meetings and edits guidelines. Where appropriate, guidelines are discussed with other interested groups (e.g. the Welsh Endocrine and Diabetes Society).
Choose topic and person to lead process.
Survey of current practice by lead person.
Meeting to review topic, involving stakeholders.
Draft guideline prepared, recommending best practice.
Consultation with laboratory staff and clinical users.
Guideline finalised and published.