This paper outlines the concept of clinical risk management (CRM), a vital component in health service providers' total quality strategies. It is argued that, owing to the nature of health-care professions, and the introduction of legislative changes, CRM has gained prominence as a proactive quality management strategy. The authors conclude that while CRM undoubtedly raises standards of patient care, the future implementation and direction of the strategy may be governed by both patient expectations and the changing nature of the 'new NHS'.