Q: Are standardized performance measures available for HCSS?
A: Yes. A standardized set of measures is utilized for health care staffing services (HCSS) certification. There are three measures in the HCSS set: Do Not Return – Clinical; Do Not Return – Professional; and, Completeness of Personnel Files. Read More.
Q: Do all HCSS firms need to collect data according to the specification instructions listed in the performance measure implementation guide?
A: Yes. Standardized measure specifications and data element definitions have been developed for each measure by outside performance measure experts and Joint Commission staff. These measure specifications were implemented by all certified HCSS firms as well as firms seeking initial certification, effective January 1, 2008. Detailed measure information (MIFs) can be found in the Health Care Staffing Services Performance Measure Implementation Guide, 2nd Edition available on our web site at no additional cost.
Q: Were the HCSS measures pilot tested?
A: Yes. A six-month pilot test of three draft measures was conducted at twenty certified HCSS firms and related branch sites (August 1, 2006 – January 31, 2007). Pilot site feedback obtained during the pilot test was used to modify the draft measures and create the standardized set. Read More.
Q: How was the 1,000 hours denominator basis used for HCSS-1: Do Not Return-Clinical and HCSS-2: Do Not Return-Professional determined?
A: Draft measure specifications and data element definitions were pilot tested then revised, following review of the pilot test findings and input from the HCSS Technical Advisory Panel members. Read More.
Q: Does standardized measure HCSS-3: Completeness of Personnel File require firms to complete a criminal background check annually?
A: A background check that includes verification of previous employers, reference checks, and a criminal records search must be completed at the time of hire and/or rehire. An annual criminal background check is not required. Read more.
Q: Do the performance measure requirements apply to independent practitioners? A: The performance measures apply to all active clinical staff, including independent practitioners working one or more hours during the month data are collected. Read more.