White, K. R., & Griffith, J. R. (2019). Chapter 4: Establishing Strategic Governance. In The well-managed healthcare organization (9th ed.). Retrieved from the Trident Online Library.
In 2-3 pages, do the following. Be sure to use your own words to explain what you have read. Do not simply quote the textbook.
- Identify the purpose of governance boards.
- Identify and define in 2-3 sentences the 6 functions of governance boards.
- Provide a brief overview of how board membership is determined.
- Briefly assess the importance of governance boards for healthcare organizations
No more than 3 pages with references
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
The governance of a healthcare organization is essential for its efficient and effective functioning. It ensures the accountability of the institution and plays a vital role in strategic decision-making to achieve its objectives. White and Griffith (2019) discuss the importance of establishing strategic governance in healthcare organizations through their book “The well-managed healthcare organization”. This paper identifies the purpose of governance boards, defines the six functions of governance boards, explains how board membership is determined, and assesses the importance of governance boards for healthcare organizations.
1. Purpose of Governance Boards:
The purpose of governance boards in healthcare organizations is to provide strategic leadership and direction to the organization. Governance boards act as the governing body and ensure compliance with legal, ethical, and regulatory requirements. The board is accountable for approving the organization’s strategic plans, policies, and decisions that affect the organization’s operations, finances, and overall reputation.
2. Six Functions of Governance Boards:
The six functions of governance boards are as follows:
a. Strategic Planning: The board is responsible for developing and approving the strategic plan of the organization.
b. Monitoring Performance: The board monitors the organization’s overall performance and ensures that it aligns with the strategic plan.
c. Resource Allocation: The board ensures that the organization’s resources are allocated efficiently and effectively to achieve goals.
d. Policy Development: The board approves policies relating to the organization’s operations, finances, and governance.
e. Risk Management: The board identifies and manages risks that may affect the organization’s ability to achieve its objectives.
f. Compliance: The board ensures that the organization complies with legal, ethical, and regulatory requirements.
3. Board Membership Determination:
The board selection process is important to ensure that the board is composed of members who have the expertise, experience, and diversity to achieve the organization’s objectives. The board membership is determined by the organization’s bylaws, and the process includes identifying potential candidates, evaluating their qualifications, and selecting candidates who meet the board’s requirements.
4. Importance of Governance Boards for Healthcare Organizations:
The governance board plays a critical role in healthcare organizations’ success. The board ensures that the organization is accountable and transparent in its operations, which builds confidence and trust among stakeholders. The board’s strategic leadership and direction help the organization achieve its long-term objectives, improving the patients’ quality of care and the organization’s financial performance. Without governance boards, healthcare organizations would lack the necessary checks and balances, potentially leading to financial, legal, or ethical problems.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, governance boards play a significant role in the strategic leadership and direction of healthcare organizations. The board’s six functions are necessary to ensure that the organization achieves its objectives through efficient and effective resource allocation, policy development, risk management, and compliance. The board’s membership selection process is crucial to ensure that the board is composed of qualified, experienced, and diverse members. Overall, governance boards provide critical oversight and accountability in healthcare organizations, improving the organization’s reputation and success.
