Development of billing post competency evaluation index system for nurses in China: a Delphi study

Area of Science:

• Nursing Administration
• Healthcare Management
• Professional Competency Assessment

Background:

• Nurses in China often perform billing duties, which carry inherent risks.
• A standardized competency evaluation system for these nurses is currently lacking in China.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a comprehensive competency evaluation index system for billing nurses in China.
• To establish a scientific and applicable framework for assessing the professional competence of nurses in billing roles.

Main Methods:

• A two-phase research design was employed, starting with a literature review and semi-structured interviews with nurses and managers.
• The Delphi method with 20 nursing experts was used in two rounds to refine and validate the indicators.
• Consensus was defined as a mean score of 4.0 or above with at least 75% agreement.

Main Results:

• The developed index system is based on the iceberg model, comprising four primary dimensions.
• The system includes 4 first-level indicators, 16 second-level indicators, and 53 third-level indicators.
• Expert validation through the Delphi method demonstrated high levels of agreement and authority.

Conclusions:

• The developed competency evaluation index system for billing nurses is scientifically sound and practical.
• This system offers a valuable framework for nursing administration in evaluating, training, and assessing billing nurse competencies.