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Tip of the week: An overview of the QIS process

Contemporary Long-Term Care Weekly, August 6, 2009

The Quality Indicator Survey (QIS) is a systematic and structured two-staged process, utilizing computerized data collection tool (DCT) software to identify care issues. Only the process of reviewing and investigating has changed with the QIS. The federal regulations and interpretive guidance have remained the same. During the QIS process, more information about the facility and its residents is obtained through more comprehensive observation, interviews, and clinical records. Both Stage I and II include sampling, investigation, and synthesis of information that provides the survey team with consistent conclusions to determine whether there is a deficient practice.

The goal of the Quality Indicator Mock Survey is really quite simple. When conducted routinely, it is a quality improvement tool that will improve the consistency of care and improve the quality of life for those residents entrusted in our care. This is a common goal among all long-term care facilities.

The QIS mock survey process can provide a variety of additional benefits for the facility. As our nation moves forward toward resident-centered care, conducting a QIS mock survey can assist you in moving in that direction. The added value of achieving person-centered care through the QIS mock survey includes polishing up your systems to ensure that they are solid enough to provide quality of care and as a result, improved survey outcomes. In CMS’ current Five-Star Quality Rating System, survey outcomes are the most heavily weighted component, and can directly affect your facility’s reputation in what has become a savvy healthcare community. As long-term care consumers and the federal government heighten their expectations of long-term care services, healthcare providers can commit to raising their own bar of expectations through the QIS mock survey process. The concept may still be new to many, but they will soon discover it is a win-win opportunity for all.

Even if the QIS process has not yet been implemented in many states, every facility can utilize the QIS process during its mock survey. As you will soon discover, there are no negative outcomes to the QIS mock survey process, only opportunities to improve care delivery and communication between frontline staff, residents, families, and management. Be prepared to listen to what you never thought you would hear and address the issues promptly.

This is an excerpt from HCPro’s book, The QIS Mock Survey Guide, by Frosini Rubertino, RN, CRNAC, C-NE, CDONA/LTC.

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