The NHS in Kent and throughout the United Kingdom is constantly seeking to improve the healthcare it offers to the public. Healthcare standards are safeguarded and improved through a process known as clinical governance.
Clinical audit
One important aspect of clinical governance is clinical audit. Through the clinical audit process, NHS healthcare services are assessed against recognised standards, and where necessary, improvements are made.
Patient and public involvement
This is a formal process through which people who use NHS services can have a say in their development.
Annual Health Check
The quality of NHS organisations is sometimes assessed by the
Healthcare Commission
. Annual Health Checks of local trusts are available on the
Annual Health Checks page
of the Healthcare Commission's website.
Best of Health
This initiative aims to ensure best practice and clinical quality are shared throughout the south east coast NHS region so that effective services can continue to be provided to local people.
Quality and Outcomes Framework
A key part of the General Medical Services (GMS) contract, this new system offers financial incentives to GP practices to encourage the provision of good quality patient care.
