Remote Survey Technology

Is remote survey technology allowed for conducting surveys? In fact, TJC noted at the consultant’s forum that they used remote survey technology for a few initial (new organization) engagements. But, this process is not yet approved by CMS for resurveys.

Remote Survey Technology

Joint Commission International uses remote surveys for organizations. Here’s how the process works.

They use Zoom which allows audio and visual communications. The setup is quite easy for conference room discussions which may include system tracers in-whole or in-part. Further, medical record tracers are also feasible by using Zoom screen sharing.

Plus, if the hospital’s computer used for accessing the medical record has internet access, you can communicate verbally through Zoom and display the record. The surveyor can request staff to display items that should be present in the medical record. And, this allows the remote surveyor to see the results on the hospital’s computer. In addition, JCI even developed a way to do an environmental tour. They use a workstation on wheels, or trolley with an iPad, computer, or USB connected to a high quality webcam. The key requirement to make this technology work is WIFI throughout the organization.

PHC Survey Prep Technology

At PHC we use this same technology to help keep organizations ready for survey. For example, we conduct accreditation readiness surveys remotely using our Zoom account. Further, we can use the hospitals preferred platform such as Microsoft Teams to conduct the remote review. This service is quite popular now and helps keep organizations ready for when accrediting bodies return to a normal survey schedule.