Abstract TP396: Strategies for Successful Stroke Survey

Abstract

Background: Comprehensive Stroke Center (CSC) certification has been available since 2012. Over 100 hospitals have completed this rigorous advanced disease specific certification. Stroke certification occurs every two years and can be resource intensive for hospitals. No matter how experienced a center is, preparation of the extended team takes considerable time and energy. Issue: Stroke Centers operate in a dynamic healthcare environment, continuously undergoing series of changes that impact care delivery across the continuum. In theory, survey preparation is an on-going process. In reality people get comfortable once certified and return to previous workflows with less attention to detail. Current literature focuses on improved quality and outcomes that result from disease specific certification. There is a limited amount of published literature regarding stroke survey preparation activities, and available publications are over ten years old. Purpose: The purpose of this presentation is to formally contribute successful survey strategies to the experience of the stroke community. Method: Various aspects of preparation, including team development, standards and clinical practice guidelines review, the role of data, and methods to prepare staff will be discussed. In addition the use of resources, the value of pre-survey consultation to provide external gap analysis, and equitable distribution of preparation activities will be explored. Result: Thorough survey preparation has led to an initial survey and two recertifications with a total of 11 RFIs. Multidisciplinary teamwork requires ongoing commitment to assure adoption of standards and continued engagement to ensure all involved areas are ready to actively participate in the on-site review process. Conclusion: More research and publication is needed to assist stroke centers to prepare for a successful stroke survey. As CSC’s mature expectations are increased to grow the way programs meet the needs of presenting stroke patients and develop the professional team. By comparing and sharing strategies, comprehensive stroke programs can share experiences that lead to decreased stress and improved confidence at the time of on-site certification visit