title: Blame and accountability 2: on being accountable.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  This second paper follows an exploration of the nature of blame and addresses the balance between a 'blame-free' health culture and appropriate accountability. This paper aims to define and describe accountability as a key component of clinical governance and a responsive, fair and transparent health culture.
  
  
  METHODS
  The literature is examined and the concept of a fair and transparent health culture is explored. The case vignette in Part 1 is used to illustrate a particular issue of accountability.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The place of accountability in relation to clinicians and health organisations is elucidated.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The necessary conditions for an accountable, responsive, fair and transparent health culture are proposed.
authors: Sydney South West Area Mental Health Service, Australia. nick.oconnor@sswahs.nsw.gov.au
authors: Nick
authors: N
authors: O'Connor
authors: Beth
authors: B
authors: Kotze
authors: Murray
authors: M
authors: Wright
mesh_terms: D002983:Clinical Competence; D003657:Decision Making; D006167:Guilt; D006801:Humans; D007858:Learning; D008318:Malpractice; D019300:Medical Errors; D015279:Organizational Culture; D011570:Psychiatry; D012449:Safety; D012941:Social Responsibility