Current understanding of clinical governance: a study of dental health care providers

OBJECTIVE: To quantify what dental care providers understand by clinical governance and how it may impact on their activities. DESIGN: A self-completed questionnaire administered to attendees at two postgraduate courses. RESULTS: A total of 71 forms were completed, a response rate of 88%. The majority of those responding recognised that clinical governance would impact in clinical areas of activity. However, nearly a third felt that any legislation would not affect receptionists or dental surgery assistants. Over 30% of respondents failed to keep records of any mistakes that occurred in their practices, a feature that is central to risk management. While overall the respondents felt that clinical governance would help to raise standards, there was also the fear that it would lead to increased litigation. CONCLUSION: There is at present a lack of understanding of clinical governance and how it will impact on the profession. If GDPs are to sustain public and political confidence in their clinical practice the issue of clinical governance must be embraced by the profession.