Updated clinical governance framework released
‘Collaborating for quality: a framework for clinical governance | He mahi ngātahi kia kounga: He anga hei whakahaere whare haumanu' sets out a high-level framework for clinical governance in health and disability services in Aotearoa New Zealand.
It replaces previous clinical governance guidance released in 2017, to reflect changes in the health sector, including the Pae Ora (Healthy Futures) Act 2022.
Clinical governance was created to provide accountability for quality of care and to improve patient experience and outcomes. The framework contains updated views on system safety, quality and equity to achieve a learning and responsive system for all populations that help teams improve care and reduce harm.
The framework includes practical examples, questions for reflection, and contains a blank template as a tool for organisations developing or reviewing their clinical governance model. This will help them to consider what elements of clinical governance are working well and what may be required to address identified gaps.
Te Tāhū Hauora Chief Executive, Dr Peter Jansen, says, “The new framework presents high-level guidance to support best practice and equitable care for everyone.
“We expect this document will support the health workforce to continuously improve the quality and safety of health care in partnership with consumers and their whānau.”
Dr Jansen says, as with clinical governance itself, the process of developing the framework has been collaborative.
“This framework is the result of the commitment of consumers, whānau and the health sector.
“In particular, I’d like to thank Te Tāhū Hauora consumer advisory group Te kāhui mahi ngātahi; our consumer network Kōtuinga kiritaki; Te Kāhui Piringa – our Māori advisory group to the Board; Whānau Ora Commissioning Agency, including participants of their focus groups; Māori Regional Coordination Hub in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland; and members of our expert advisory group.”