Psychiatrists and case managers in a community mental health team could consider adopting less formal attire. This conclusion is limited by the small sample and may be relevant to rural areas only. Further research is needed in urban centres. Implications of these findings are discussed.

The application of an internal audit methodology to a clinical area is a promising mechanism to gain robust assurance at the governance level regarding the management of significant clinical risks. This approach needs further exploration and trial in a range of health care settings.