Exploring the links between audit and the research process.
The policy background The last decade has witnessed an explosion of activity among health professionals under the banner of audit and quality. Prior to the publication of Working for Patients ( 1 ) such activities were entirely optional, but the NHS Review ( 1 ) introduced a requirement to develop them. Since then the DoH has funded separate programmes of audit for the medical professions on the one hand, and the nursing and therapy professions on the other. Funds totalling more than £220 million ( 2 ) were distributed via two channels - through the regional health authorities for local bidding mainly among provider units, and through a central bidding process for national projects such as those sponsored by the royal colleges. This programme ended in 1995 when audit funds were devolved to health commissions to facilitate audit activities on a more local basis.
Centre for Health Services Research. University of Newcastle.
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