How is "risk management" defined in healthcare?

In the context of healthcare, risk management is defined as the identification and assessment of healthcare risks. This encompasses a systematic approach to recognizing potential hazards that could adversely affect patients, staff, or organizational integrity. By identifying risks, healthcare organizations can develop strategies to minimize or mitigate them, ultimately enhancing patient safety and improving overall care quality.

For instance, this process may involve analyzing patient safety incidents, evaluating compliance with regulations, and implementing preventive measures to address identified vulnerabilities. A comprehensive risk management strategy is essential for maintaining a safe healthcare environment, ensuring regulatory compliance, and protecting the assets and reputation of the organization. In contrast, the other choices, while relevant to healthcare operations, do not encapsulate the essence of risk management. Enhancing patient experience, tracking financial performance, and improving employee satisfaction are important aspects of healthcare administration but do not specifically focus on the proactive approach to identifying and managing risks.