What is a policy?

A policy is a broad written statement that outlines an organization's intentions and principles regarding specific issues or areas of operation. It serves as a guiding framework for decision-making and establishes the parameters within which actions and procedures are developed and executed. By defining a course of action, a policy ensures consistency and clarity across the organization, providing a foundation for staff to understand the organization's goals and standards.

In contrast to more detailed procedural guidelines, which focus on specific steps and processes, a policy provides the overarching philosophy and direction. It is distinct from an individual plan for care, which caters to specific individual needs, and a checklist for compliance, which is typically a tool used to ensure that certain practices are being followed. Instead, the function of a policy is to create a uniform approach that can be adapted into smaller procedural guidelines and practices throughout an organization.