Implementation of a clinical governance framework to 17 Combat Service Support Brigade, Australian Army
Abstract
Purpose
In 2012, Headquarters 17 Combat Service Support Brigade (HQ 17 CSS Bde) implemented a clinical governance framework. The framework is intended as a quality improvement tool through which excellence in deployed healthcare is achieved. The purpose of this paper is to describe the implementation of this clinical governance framework to 17 CSS Bde and present feedback provided by users on their application of the clinical governance framework.
Design/methodology/approach
An electronic survey was disseminated to the four 17 CSS Bde deployable health battalions (n=1,061). Qualitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and qualitative data using thematic analysis.
Findings
In total, there were 105 responses providing valid data for analysis. The data identified mixed understanding and awareness of clinical governance amongst participants, and pinpointed aspects of the framework that needed refinement.
Practical implications
The results highlight important challenges implementing a clinical governance framework for deployable health units. The authors propose embedding clinical governance education in all army soldier and officer health courses to remedy deficits in knowledge and understanding. Recommendations for further development of the clinical governance framework are also made with particular emphasis on education, clinical risk and clinical evaluation.
Originality/value
This paper offers unique insight into the implementation of a clinical governance framework to the 17 CSS Bde, Australian Army. The results suggest that levels of understanding and awareness of clinical governance are stalling its translation through the military hierarchy. The data identify that implementation of a clinical governance framework is not easy, even within a military environment where the culture is to follow orders and obey the chain of command.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors acknowledge the support and guidance of Associate Professor Thomas Buckley, University of Sydney, Sydney Nursing School, in the statistical analysis. Dr Tom Buckley is an Associate Professor in the Critical/Acute Care teaching and research team and Postgraduate Coordinator (Research). Tom is an active researcher in aspects of nurse practitioner scope of practice.
Citation
Currie, J., Mateer, J., Weston, D., Anderson, E. and Harding, J. (2017), "Implementation of a clinical governance framework to 17 Combat Service Support Brigade, Australian Army", International Journal of Health Governance, Vol. 22 No. 1, pp. 15-24. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJHG-04-2016-0024
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2017, Emerald Publishing Limited