What does risk management aim to achieve in health and social care?

Risk management in health and social care is primarily focused on identifying and mitigating risks associated with service delivery. This involves recognizing potential hazards or vulnerabilities that could impact patient safety, quality of care, or the overall effectiveness of health services. By addressing these risks proactively, healthcare providers can implement strategies to minimize adverse outcomes, enhance patient safety, and ensure a higher standard of care.

This process is essential for fostering a safe environment for both patients and staff, as it helps to reduce the likelihood of incidents such as medical errors, injuries, or legal liabilities. Ultimately, effective risk management contributes to the overall quality and reliability of health and social care services, making it a core component of service delivery in these sectors.

The other options, while relevant to aspects of health and social care, do not encapsulate the primary goal of risk management. Increasing the number of patients seen may be a goal for healthcare providers, but it does not address the safety and quality concerns that risk management targets. Improving marketing strategies focuses on promoting services rather than ensuring safety and mitigating risks. Ensuring compliance with government regulations is vital for operational legality but does not directly align with the central aim of identifying and managing risks to care delivery.