The article provides overall information about quality assurance methods implemented in health care. Described methods are divided into three categories: preventive methods, methods related to identification of problems and malpractice and remedies of poor practice. Dissemi- nation of clinical practice guidelines as well as the process of hospital accreditation as tools of quality improvement are mentioned in a greated detaile. The current situation in Czech health care from the point of view of quality assurance is also discussed.

        Key words: quality assurance in health care - quality standard- evidence based medicine recommended procedures - clinical audit - accreditation of hospitals.