The new ESRD core survey: Part 2: strategy important in developing an action plan

My experience with facilities that have been through a Core Survey is that if an issue or concern arises during a survey, the surveyor will ask to see the QAPI meeting minutes. If in the QAPI minutes, the interdisciplinary team has identified the concern, developed an action plan, and is working toward a remedy for that concern, the concern may not be cited as a deficient practice. Identifying your own problems is better than a "get out of jail free" card, because it allows you to proactively take actions and keep patients safe. The Core Survey process supports collaboration with CMS in identifying our own areas of concern and working toward safe and quality solutions. I am optimistic about the future of dialysis and the delivery of care. One way to embrace these concepts is to sit down at the chair side and ask each patient, "How can we do better?" Listening, and taking action will drive care forward by using a strategic and collaborative approach.