From Council to Commission: building on a solid foundation for safety and quality

Abstract

THE AUSTRALIAN COUNCIL for Safety and Quality in Health Care was established in January 2000 by all Australian Health Ministers to lead improvements in the safety and quality of health care in Australia. The Council will complete its term in mid-2006, so it is timely to consider the work that it has led and the possible implications for the future health care system. There is no doubt that stakeholders are now keenly aware of the importance of safety and quality issues, and that future priorities can be further developed and implemented by those with the responsibility and authority to do so across the system.