Policy management can be described in the following four step cycle:
1. Creation: When a need is identified within an organization, a policy is written and goes through an approval process.
2. Communication: After creation and approval, a policy is communicated to staff. This includes publication of the policy, training, and attestation.
3. Management: Throughout the life of the policy, it is consistently enforced and exceptions are managed when applicable.
4. Maintenance: Policies are reviewed regularly, updated, and archived when necessary (Open Compliance & Ethics Group, 2012).
Effective policy management can significantly mitigate risk in a health care organization. When policies that guide patient care and employee safety are easily accessible, they will be consulted more frequently, ensuring that employees are following proper procedures. Thus, risky situations for staff members and patients are avoided.