Preparing for a Survey

Trauma center verification is an opportunity for a trauma center to demonstrate that it is in compliance with national and state trauma standards. It showcases a hospital’s commitment to the trauma program, its readiness to care for severely injured patients, and its process for identifying and remediating performance issues. While the site surveyors are charged with ensuring the hospital meets the minimum trauma standards, it is also an opportunity for a trauma center to spotlight its strengths and receive feedback on how to improve the program in the future.

By definition a site review is a one- or two-day event, but it is also the culmination of months and years of work to build and run an effective trauma program. It can also be a stressful endeavor, especially when preparing for the first survey or a survey after deficiencies were identified. B+A has helped hundreds of trauma centers prepare for verification review, both from the American College of Surgeons and from state/regional governing bodies.

Components of the Project

The components of a typical survey preparation project may include the following:

• A gap analysis of compliance with current ACS and/or state standards

• Development of a preparation timeline and plan for gathering, revising, and reviewing all documents prior to submission

• Guidance on how to best address deficiencies and demonstrate compliance with verification standards

• Simulated chart review and mock hospital tours to maximize the efficiency of the tour and allow staff to practice for the site survey

• Recommended resources and best practice examples to assist the hospital in developing new policies and guidelines

• Coaching trauma team leadership and hospital administrators for a successful visit, especially if it is their first time managing a trauma survey

• An objective, third-party perspective to ensure materials are succinct, clear, and understandable

We’ve Got Your Back For The Long Term

B+A traditionally provides strong support to former clients. Our clients will tell you they feel supported by us as long as needed, rarely at added cost. Because ACS visits occur every three years, we know that sometimes hospitals need ongoing advice and support over time. We stand by our work.