Healthcare facilities are supposed to remain in a constant state of readiness, but we all know priorities pull us in different directions. As an inevitable survey approaches, preparing for the big day becomes more important. Join an accreditation expert as we explore a typical preparedness campaign driven by a best practice Gantt chart that can be easily adoptable by any facility.
Tool: Survey Preparedness Timeline/ Gantt Chart
Problem: Preparing for a survey can be tricky. A tool was needed for a central location to plan, track, and document progress of needed preparedness activities leading up to a survey. Value will be greatly added to conference participants looking to get suggestions on which planning activities are recommended to occur.
Tool Selection: Charting and Microsoft Excel go hand in hand. Microsoft Excel is a common application that many know how to use. It is easy to update the Gantt chart as needed, and others will find it simple to customize to their needs.
Usage: It’s a fairly self-explanatory tool. A suspected survey date is needed to calculate and estimate time frames leading up to the survey. All preparedness/ response activities are then listed vertically with indicators showing when these should occur. Follow the planned activity dates and document progress up until the survey!
Results: The use of the tool is extremely effective for ensuring the healthcare facility intentionally plans out and executes activities in preparation for their survey. Success and failure of preparedness hinges on how well this tool is utilized and the activities executed.
