Ensuring surveyors are well-trained and efficient is key to maintaining regulatory excellence. A few years ago, I had the opportunity to observe a new Life Safety Code Surveyor (LSCS) on a survey in South Florida. The new LSCS was able to complete the document review session in less than 90 minutes using Soleran Healthcare’s document review system with no findings!  Given that we typically allocate 120 to 150 minutes for this session, this level of efficiency was truly impressive. This success didn’t happen by chance. It was the result of a well-structured, disciplined, and proactive approach to training. How was this organization so successful?  

Key Elements of a Successful LSCS Training Program

• Early Implementation: They began implementation immediately following the organization’s last triennial survey.
• Dedicated Super Users: They had a primary (driver) and secondary individuals assigned as super users.

Just in case you wanted to know…So how are LSCSs trained?

• Comprehensive Training: New LSCSs participate in an intensive four-day virtual training class, typically running from Monday to Thursday. The first 2.5 days cover general training, while the last day and a half focus on LSCS-specific topics.
• Structured Mentorship: New LSCSs undergo five precepted surveys alongside experienced Senior LSCSs, who act as mentors. Each survey builds upon the previous one, gradually increasing the new LSCS’s level of responsibility. For example, the first survey the new LSCS focuses on is travel and other logistics. During subsequent survey events, they increase their participation in the document review, building tour activities, or conducting the Emergency Management session.
• Final Evaluation: During the sixth and final precepted survey, a Field Director routinely observes the new LSCS to ensure adherence to survey protocols. New LSCS are assessed on a 100-point scale, covering various areas such as pre-survey activities, arrival, and facility orientation, as well as specific sections for operating rooms, dietary, and even other areas like workplace violence.
• Ongoing Weekly and Bi-Monthly Webinars with experts keep the LSCSs up to date on key contemporary issues.

The Power of Training for Long-Term Success

The results of this well-structured training approach speak for themselves. By prioritizing early implementation, leveraging knowledgeable mentors, and utilizing technology like Soleran Healthcare’s document review system, organizations can significantly improve their survey efficiency. Not only does this lead to a smoother, quicker review process, but it also helps ensure compliance, consistency, and ultimately, better patient safety. Organizations that embrace this proactive approach will be better equipped to navigate surveys with confidence and precision - just like the LSCS I observed in South Florida.