Service Review

A Service Review comprises an independent examination and report of a service or unit’s operations in accord with identified terms of reference. The Service Review is customised to the organisation’s aims and specification, and is commonly performed utilising a project management-style framework.

Generally, a Service Review involves identifying the approaches and the performance of services operated by the organisation in relation to a set of core service system elements. Through a process of consultation and application of a research-style methodology, the vital components of a positive practice model of clinical service delivery applicable to the service are identified, and a set of recommendations are presented regarding the establishment and implementation of the preferred practice model.

This preferred practice model is workshopped with key organisation staff and the strategic direction and actions presented via a proposed service improvement plan which in turn would be linked to individual unit enhancement plans, the individual consumer plans and the Disability Service Standards.

Features and benefits of a Service Review are:

• Customised consultation processes
• Identification and appraisal of client-related, staff-related and service management systems
• Identification and appraisal of Policy and Procedure documentation and the operational linkage
• Identification and appraisal of environmental features, risks and the operational effects
• Preparation of Service Improvement / Unit Plan and strategic overview to facilitate planning

A Service Review enables an organisation to identify current challenges and issues, and determine priorities for development.