Q&A: The performance improvement presentation to surveyors

Q: What information should I be sure to include in the performance improvement presentation for surveyors?

A: As you know, the first morning of survey is a high-pressure experience in which preparation really pays off. Most survey teams will allow your organization to make a brief presentation describing the programs and services, leadership team, community, etc. When you prepare that presentation (and it should be ready on the shelf whenever needed!), be sure to discuss:

• What process improvement model or methodology you use (PDCA, DMAIC, etc.)
• The organization chart of all the quality committees from your quality improvement (QI) plan
• Your dashboard or list of current measures that you are tracking at the board and senior levels
• One or two examples of QI that you are particularly proud of and feel would be well known throughout the organization
• How you match your PI work to the priority focus areas that The Joint Commission has selected for your organization

You can be sure that the surveyors will ask about these topics wherever they go, so this is a way to orient them to your culture and program, and help them ask staff about relevant and useful topics.

Editor’s Note: Do you have a question about clarifying RFIs, policy management, or survey-prep for our experts? E-mail your queries to Jaclyn Beck at jbeck@hcpro.com and receive one-on-one advice from our experienced advisory board. Submit a question and our credible sources will provide you with a timely answer.