January 28, 2019: Of the four shared governance principles, Partnership, Equity, Accountability and Ownership, Accountability might stand out as most familiar since it is one of our Houston Methodist ICARE values. Accountability, along with ownership, make up the core of shared governance. Accountability allows for the evaluation of role performance; supports partnerships; and is secured as staff produce positive outcomes. How does accountability differ from responsibility? This simple table explains the differences:
| Accountability |
| Defined by outcomes |
| Self-described |
| Embedded in roles |
| Dependent on partnerships |
| Shared evaluation |
| Contributions-driven value |
| Responsibility |
| Defined by functions |
| Delegated |
| Specific tasks/routines dictated |
| Isolative |
| Supervisor evaluation |
| Tasks-driven value |
Discuss the differences between accountability and responsibility with your team. How can you move towards accountability? Do your outcomes demonstrate accountable actions?
— Janet Leatherwood, CNO
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