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Simulation and the MSP

Credentialing Resource Center Connection, June 21, 2007

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Sally J. Pelletier, CPMSM, CPCS, is a consultant with The Greeley Company, a division of HCPro, Inc., specializing in the areas of credentialing and privileging.

Dear credentialing colleague:

A number of new buzz words have surfaced in the credentialing and privileging world recently: focused professional practice evaluation, ongoing professional practice evaluation, evidence-based decisions, and simulation, to name a few.

The Encarta Dictionary defines simulation as "the reproduction of the essential features of something, for example, as an aid to study or training." When most MSPs think of simulation for physicians, they tend to focus automatically on the evaluation of clinical and technical skills for procedural-based specialties. But healthcare organizations can also use simulation to determine and monitor cognitive skills. Although, at first blush, the use of simulation may seem to be-and often is-problematic for many institutions, the process is destined to become more common in the future.

As I was thinking about how organizations use simulation to determine the competency of physicians' clinical skills, I also reflected on whether simulation has potential uses for the credentialing and privileging processes. Are there replications of credentialing and privileging issues that organizations could use in a proactive training approach for MSPs, credentialing specialists, and medical staff leaders?

The answer is, "Absolutely!" Simulating potential problems that might occur during the credentialing and privileging process gives organizations an opportunity to teach staff how to solve such challenges calmly and effectively in case the actual event occurs.  Imagine the benefits of simulating the following situations before they occur, eliminating the emotional aspect of dealing with a known individual on your medical staff:

-          The aging anesthesiologist who is having difficulty monitoring vital signs  because he or she cannot hear the auditory alarm systems

-          The no-volume family medicine physician who is up for reappointment and actively supports your hospital but no longer has any inpatient activity

-          The applicant who has a "hit" on a routine background search

You should have existing policies in place to address each of these situations. You must also have confidence that your policies will be up to the task when you need them. Start by ensuring that your organization revises its policies to incorporate thoughtful and effective solutions to any deficiencies you identify during simulations. Of course, you cannot account for every potential scenario, but practicing the art of credentialing will ensure better decisions and better results for your organization.

Remember, credentialing has no other master than the patient.

That's all for this week.

All the best,

Sally J. Pelletier, CPMSM, CPCS

http://www.greeley.com/consulting.cfm

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