Clinical Handover Policy

Applicable to: This policy is applicable to admitted patients within all Health Service Providers except Health Support Services, PathWest and Quadriplegic Centre.

Description: Clinical handover is an explicit transfer of professional responsibility and accountability for some or all aspects of care for a patient, or group of patients, to another person or professional group on a temporary or permanent basis.

The Clinical Handover Policy (the policy) establishes a consistent and structured process for clinical handovers for Health Service Providers to ensure seamless delivery of healthcare which will enhance patient experiences and outcomes. 

The policy aligns with the National Safety and Quality Health Service Standards (2nd ed.) specifically, Standard 6 Communicating for Safety Standard.

This policy is a mandatory requirement for Health Service Providers under the Clinical Governance, Safety and Quality Policy Framework pursuant to section 26(2)(d) of the Health Services Act 2016.

Date of effect: 18 October 2018

Policy Framework

Supporting information