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IS THE AUDIT PROCESS WORKING?

King George Hospital, Barley Lane, Goodmayes, Ilford IG3 8YB

All multidisciplinary audit projects from January 1998 to March 2002 involving an Orthopaedic department were assessed to measure their impact on improving clinical practice. Data were derived from reports formulated by the Trust’s Audit department, which listed findings, conclusions and proposals for each project.

Among 41 studies performed, 37 listed a formal proposal of actions. 4 projects had a completed outcome of which 2 closed the loop with re-audit. 9 other projects recommended re-audit but none had been initiated. Although Trusts actively partake in regular audit, it seems more as a service or training commitment, rather than contributing towards improving the quality of healthcare.

The abstracts were prepared by Mr Tim Briggs. (Editoral Secretary 2003/4) Correspondence should be addressed to him at Lane Farm, Chapel Lane, Totternhoe, Dunstable, Bedfordshire LU6 2BZ, United Kingdom