Medical audit

Medical Audit is defined as the evaluation of medical care in retrospect thorough analysis of medical records. It involves assessing current performance against set standards and hence, in contrast to research, does not generate new knowledge. An audit is a cyclical process which consists of defining standards, collecting data, identifying areas for improvement, making necessary changes and back round to defining new standards.

Audit means official examination and verification of accounts or financial transactions. Medical Audit is examination and verification of dealings of medical care. Mac Eachern states that "Financial Deficiencies can eventually be met with but Medical deficiencies may cost lives and loss of health which can never be retrieved".