The Changing Role of an Audit Support Group

Abstract

An audit support group was established within a University Department of Public Health in 1991 to provide a resource for clinical audit. A postal survey of 300 consultants and senior registrars (59% response rate) showed 72% had participated in audit, 47% currently involved, 40% implementing change. 40% had no experience in standard setting or implementing change. Comparison of the workload of the group for August 91 - March 92 and April 92 - March 93 showed 4 requests for support per month, 4/5 from doctors during first period compared with 6 requests per month and 1/3 from doctors during second period. Since the group was established demand from clinicians has decreased and from professions allied to medicine increased. This may reflect either clinicians' increased experience or decline in enthusiasm for audit. Education in the basic skills for audit for all healthcare professionals, improved communications and practical support for clinical audit is necessary.