The care pathway: a tool to enhance clinical governance

Authors: Ellis, Brian W; Johnson, Sue

Source: Clinical Performance in Quality Healthcare, Volume 7, Number 3, 1999 , pp. 134-144(11)

Publisher: Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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Abstract:

A care pathway defines in detail the individual components of treatment for a group of patients. A well-written pathway can lead to consistent care of the highest quality. There are both educational and audit advantages to the approach. The authors detail the means by which groups are selected and the care pathways written. An example of the benefits that can accrue comes from their experience at Ashford Hospital of running a pathway for patients having prostate surgery. The pathways are appreciated by patients, nurses, doctors and managers. Care is improved, costs contained and clinical governance enhanced.

Keywords: Health Care; Procedures; Documentation

Document Type: Research article

Publication date: 1999-03-01