Surveyor Training Programs Available

CMS’s Survey and Certification Group announced a series of three web-based surveyor training programs regarding care of persons with dementia and unnecessary antipsychotic medication use.  The training programs are available for non-surveyors and can be accessed at the CMS website.  Below is a summary of the training contents and instructions on how to access the materials.

Content includes:
1. How to identify whether a systematic, individualized approach was implemented for a resident with dementia
2. How to identify that a systematic process is in place and has been followed for persons with dementia in the facility
3. How to evaluate the role of the resident, consultant pharmacist, physician/NP/PA, medical director, direct care staff, family and other members of the interdisciplinary care team
4. How to identify other associated tags related to care of persons with dementia and unnecessary medication use.

The third installment of the training will address how to cite severity and other aspects of deficiency citations in more detail, based on new guidance at F309, Care of Residents with Dementia, and revised guidance at F329 that is in development.

The first video program is 40 minutes in length.  The second self-study may take anywhere from 45 minutes to 1 hour or somewhat longer, depending on the knowledge and experience of the individual surveyor student.

How to Access these Videos for Non-Surveyors:  If you are a provider or do not wish to receive credit for viewing the program follow the instructions below.
1. Go to http://surveyortraining.cms.hhs.gov
2. Click on the “I am a Provider” tab
3. Click on the “Reduction in Unnecessary Medications in Nursing Homes” at the menu at the top of the screen
4. Click on the program that you wish to view.

For webinar technical questions contact Duva Clyburn at Duva.clyburn@cms.hhs.gov or Etolia Biggs at Etolia.biggs@cms.hhs.gov.