Survey Readiness Resource Helps ASCs Address Infection Control Practices

Medline Industries, Inc. introduces a new CMS Survey Readiness Program for ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs). The program helps ASCs in interpreting new Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) regulatory requirements, preparing for the CMS survey and improving patient safety. CMS recently mandated the new survey process to promote better infection control practices within the estimated 5,300 freestanding ambulatory surgery centers nationwide that account for 53.3 million same-day surgical and non-surgical procedures.

"With more invasive diagnostic and surgical procedures being performed in outpatient settings, CMS has turned its attention to the surgery center market," says Dirk Benson, Medline's vice president of sales for the ambulatory surgery division. "This fast-paced, high-volume environment provides unique challenges and opportunities for infection control and prevention. Medline's CMS Survey Readiness Program combines educational opportunities, readiness tools and useful resources to help ASCs maintain compliance and retain financial reimbursement for the services they provide."

Medline's CMS Readiness Program consists of a series of modules, each designed to address a specific CMS regulation within the survey. The modules are written materials that accompany a series of webinars that ASC staff can attend to prepare for the surveys. Module one, Infection Prevention, is currently available through Medline University (www.medlineuniversity.com), Medline's free online educational resource. Upcoming modules include: Environmental Compliance of Ambulatory Surgery; Crafting a Quality Assessment Improvement Program; Rules and Regulations for Governing Boards; and Understanding Patient Rights, Admission and Discharge Needs.

The first webinar, Keys to Successful Ambulatory Surgery Center Surveys, is currently available on Medline University and free to all surgery centers. Participants will learn how to use the program and how the modules will prepare the facility for the survey. At the conclusion of the program, ASCs will have the tools and resources to improve patient safety; pass a CMS survey; potentially prevent interruption in patient care and lost revenue; and reduce staff anxiety and work load by providing a "turnkey" program.

For more information on Medline's CMS Survey Readiness Program for Ambulatory Surgery Centers visit www.medline.com.