Clinical governance is the framework that ensures healthcare is safe, effective, and continuously improving. At London Wart Clinic, clinical governance underpins how care is delivered, how decisions are made, and how standards are maintained across all aspects of patient treatment.

This page explains the principles that guide our clinical practice, how we align with UK medical standards, and the systems in place to protect patient safety and quality of care.

What clinical governance means in practice

In the UK, clinical governance is a core responsibility of healthcare providers. It brings together a set of processes designed to maintain and improve the quality of clinical services while safeguarding patients.

In practice, this means ensuring that:

• Clinical decisions are evidence based

• Care is delivered by appropriately trained clinicians

• Risks are identified, managed, and reviewed

• Patient outcomes and feedback are taken seriously

• Practice is reviewed and updated in line with current guidance

These principles are reflected in NHS clinical governance frameworks and are widely adopted across regulated private healthcare settings.

Adherence to UK clinical guidance

Our clinical standards are informed by recognised UK and international guidance relevant to dermatology and minor skin surgery.

This includes guidance and position statements from organisations such as the British Association of Dermatologists and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, where applicable to wart management and skin lesion treatment.

While not every clinical scenario is covered by formal guidelines, published evidence and accepted dermatological practice inform decision-making where specific guidance does not exist.

Qualified clinicians and scope of practice

All clinical care is delivered by appropriately qualified medical professionals working within their scope of practice. This includes adherence to professional standards set by UK regulatory bodies such as the General Medical Council.

Clinicians are responsible for:

• Maintaining up-to-date medical knowledge

• Working within their level of training and competence

• Making decisions based on clinical assessment rather than protocol alone

• Referring or escalating care when required

This professional accountability is a core element of safe medical practice.

Patient safety and risk management

Patient safety is central to clinical governance. Systems are in place to minimise risk before, during, and after treatment.

These include:

• Accurate clinical assessment and documentation

• Informed consent based on clear explanation of risks and benefits

• Infection control measures appropriate for viral skin conditions

• Use of clinically appropriate equipment and techniques

• Clear aftercare guidance and access to follow-up advice

Any unexpected outcomes or complications are reviewed to identify learning points and improve future care.

Infection control and hygiene standards

Warts are caused by viral infection of the skin, which makes infection control particularly important. Clinical procedures are carried out using strict hygiene and sterilisation protocols consistent with UK healthcare standards.

This includes:

• Use of sterile or single-use instruments where appropriate

• Surface cleaning and clinical waste disposal

• Measures to reduce viral spread to surrounding skin

• Protection of both patients and staff

These standards are aligned with accepted infection prevention practices used in outpatient medical settings.

Informed consent and patient involvement

Clinical governance requires that patients are active participants in decisions about their care.

Before treatment, patients are provided with clear information about:

• The nature of the condition

• Treatment options and alternatives

• Expected outcomes and limitations

• Potential risks and side effects

• Aftercare and recovery

Consent is obtained only after patients have had the opportunity to ask questions and understand the information provided.

Monitoring outcomes and continuous improvement

Quality of care is not static. Clinical outcomes, patient feedback, and treatment responses are reviewed as part of ongoing clinical governance.

This allows us to:

• Identify patterns in treatment success or recurrence

• Adjust clinical approaches where appropriate

• Maintain consistency across patient care

• Ensure standards remain aligned with current evidence

Continuous review is a recognised component of clinical governance within UK healthcare.

Transparency and professional responsibility

Clinical governance also involves openness and accountability. We aim to be transparent about how care is delivered and how standards are maintained.

This includes clear communication with patients, accurate clinical records, and adherence to professional and ethical obligations expected of UK medical practitioners.

Commitment to safe, responsible care

Clinical governance provides the structure that supports safe and effective wart treatment. By following established medical standards, maintaining professional accountability, and continuously reviewing practice, we aim to deliver care that is appropriate, proportionate, and in the best interests of our patients.