Which of the following best describes the term "clinical governance"?

The term "clinical governance" best refers to a framework for ensuring quality and accountability in healthcare services. It encompasses a system that promotes continuous improvement in the quality of healthcare, as well as safeguards high standards of care. This framework involves various components, including clinical effectiveness, patient safety, risk management, and the monitoring of healthcare outcomes, aimed at maintaining and enhancing the quality of patient care.

By establishing clinical governance, healthcare organizations can foster an environment where clinicians are held accountable for their work, processes are continuously evaluated for improvement, and patient outcomes are prioritized. This ensures that health services not only meet regulatory requirements but also adapt to the evolving needs of patients and the healthcare landscape.

The other options do not align with the comprehensive nature of clinical governance. While some may pertain to aspects of healthcare management or policy, they do not encapsulate the broader goals of accountability and quality improvement emphasized in clinical governance.