Clinical Governance Policy
Clinical Governance Policy for Compass Retreats
Purpose: The purpose of this Clinical Governance Policy is to establish a framework that ensures the highest quality of care, safety, and effectiveness of services provided within Compass Retreats. This policy aligns with the standards set by the Australian Psychological Society (APS), the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA), and the Psychology Board of Australia (PBA).
Scope: This policy applies to all clinicians, staff, and stakeholders involved in the delivery of services as part of Compass Retreats.
1. Definition of Clinical Governance
Clinical governance is a systematic approach to maintaining and improving the quality of patient care within a health system. It involves a framework that ensures accountability, enhances safety, and promotes continuous quality improvement.
2. Principles of Clinical Governance
The Gateways Program will adhere to the following key principles of clinical governance:
Accountability: Ensure that all clinicians and staff take responsibility for the quality and safety of the care they provide. This includes compliance with relevant legal, ethical, and professional standards.
Clinical Effectiveness: Implement evidence-based practices and interventions that are reviewed regularly to ensure they meet the needs of clients effectively.
Safety: Develop and maintain systems to identify, manage, and mitigate clinical risks to clients and staff, ensuring a safe environment for all participants.
Patient-Centered Care: Focus on the individual needs and preferences of participants, empowering them to be active partners in their care and decision-making processes.
Education and Training: Ensure that all staff and clinicians receive ongoing professional development and training to stay current with best practices, advancements in psychology, and ethical considerations.
Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI): Establish processes for the regular evaluation of services and outcomes, utilizing feedback from clients and staff to inform improvements.
3. Governance Structure
The following governance structure will support the implementation of clinical governance within Compass Retreats:
Clinical Lead: A designated clinical lead will ensure adherence to clinical governance policies, oversee the implementation of programs, and facilitate collaboration among team members.
4. Quality and Safety Framework
Risk Management: Develop proactive measures to identify, assess, and manage clinical risks. This includes handling crises, complaints, and safety hazards effectively.
Service Evaluation: Regularly evaluate the effectiveness of programs and interventions through client feedback, outcome measures, and clinical audits.
Incident Reporting: Establish a transparent incident reporting system to document and analyse adverse events, near misses, and complaints, implementing strategies to prevent recurrence.
5. Client Feedback and Engagement
Feedback Mechanisms: Encourage clients to provide feedback on their experiences through surveys, focus groups, and one-on-one discussions. This feedback will be used to inform service improvement.
Client Involvement: Involve participants in discussions regarding service improvements and program development to ensure their voices are heard.
6. Compliance and Regulatory Standards
Adherence to Professional Standards: Ensure that all clinicians comply with relevant legislation, codes of ethics, and standards set by the APS, AHPRA, and the PBA.
7. Review and Amendments
This Clinical Governance Policy will be reviewed annually or as needed to reflect changes in legal, ethical, or procedural standards. Staff will be informed of any amendments to ensure compliance and understanding.
Conclusion: The Gateways Program is committed to maintaining a high standard of clinical governance, promoting quality care, and fostering a culture of safety and continuous improvement. Through this robust framework, we strive to ensure the best outcomes for all participants in the program.