what is the difference between a policy and standard operating procedure.?

Question

I am working in a new hospital which is being set up. I need to know if one requires a policy for each standard operating procedure. Does a policy not cover a summary of how the management practises or laws which they adhere to at the hospital? Please advice.

Answer 1

Legalese notwithstanding, I think that 'Policy' refers to the way the administration sets up guidelines for operation, while 'standard operating procedure' refers to how the policy is carried out on a situational basis.