Sessions

Survey readiness 101: Overview and getting started

Speakers:

Matthew Sandoval, MHA, CPHQ, CJCP, HACP, FACHE, Principal (Costa Mesa, CA), Health Management Associates

Trisha Bielski, RN, BSN, MSN, CCRN, CEN, ACCNS-AG, Senior Consultant (Austin, TX), Health Management Associates

Robert Ross, MHSA, FACHE, Managing Director, Delivery Systems, Health Management Associates

This module provides an essential foundation for healthcare organizations seeking to prepare for DOH, CMS, TJC and DNV regulatory and accreditation surveys. Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles of survey readiness, with an emphasis on developing a continuous readiness culture. We’ll explore national and statewide survey trends, common challenges and best practices for addressing them. Special attention will be given to interpreting and applying standards, maintaining ongoing compliance and fostering team collaboration to achieve survey success.

Participants will learn how to approach accreditation as a dynamic, organization-wide process rather than a one-time event. The session will highlight strategies for self-assessment, performance improvement and documentation to prepare effectively for any survey. By the end of the module, attendees will feel confident taking the initial steps toward creating a robust framework for survey readiness and sustained compliance.

Learning objectives

• understand the foundational elements of survey readiness and differences between DOH, CMS, TJC and DNV survey processes;
• identify national and statewide trends in accreditation and their implications for hospital operations and compliance;
• recognize common challenges healthcare organizations face in survey readiness and learn practical strategies to address them;
• develop a framework for fostering a culture of continuous survey readiness and sustained compliance;
• learn effective approaches for conducting organizational self-assessments and identifying performance improvement opportunities;
• understand the importance of documentation and evidence-based practices in maintaining survey readiness; and
• gain actionable steps for engaging multidisciplinary teams in the accreditation preparation process.