The role of the Clinical Governance Adviser in supporting quality improvement in general dental practice: the Glasgow Quality Practice Initiative

Aim The purpose of this paper is to share information derived from the Glasgow Quality Practice Initiative with general dental practice teams, Dental Practice Advisers and others involved in quality improvement. Method A sample of 16 general dental practices was selected from volunteers to receive assistance in working towards a Quality Practice Award. Two Clinical Governance Advisers were appointed to provide this support. Data collected Quantitative, qualitative and observational data were collected, and comparisons made between practices that had and had not received support. Results Selected results are presented demonstrating both the baseline position and comparisons of the 'Intervention' and 'Non-Intervention' groups. Conclusions and recommendations Baseline levels of quality assurance were generally poor. It is asserted that the practices receiving Clinical Governance Adviser support benefited from the experience and made meaningful improvements. This has implications for the development of national policy in Scotland.