Psychiatric audits. The Ontario scene.
Results of a survey conducted early in 1978, about the state of psychiatric audits in Ontario, are presented and discussed. Of the facilities that responded 66% reported the existence of an audit system for psychiatric care. The picture that evolves from the survey shows that audits are comprehensive in only 52% of Ontario facilities, more so in the provincial psychiatric hospitals than in psychiatric units in general hospitals. The audits are multidisciplinary in 64% of all facilities. While only 50% of facilities involved in audits felt that audits have a positive impact on improvement of psychiatric care, 71% were positive that audits have contributed to continuing staff education. The authors report their experience in introducing a criteria audit system. Factors influencing the selection, as well as advantages and criticisms of this model are discussed.
D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D004502:Education, Medical, Continuing; D008485:Medical Audit / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards; D008605:Mental Health Services / Q000592:standards*; D009864:Ontario; D011570:Psychiatry / Q000193:education