In Part One QAPI for the LTPAC in 2016, I reviewed the definition of QAPI and discussed the 5 elements of QAPI. Part Two of this series is going to focus on the twelve steps of QAPI. In order for any QAPI process to be successful, it is recommended that you use the twelve steps as developed by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).  

To begin the QAPI process in your building you will want to begin the first step of the twelve step process from CMS and work your way through to step twelve. It will take anywhere from six to twelve months to fully implement this program in your facilities. Remember, this is a process that requires a team approach to work through. Below is the basic framework you will need to build a successful QAPI process in your facility process.

12 Steps to Build a Successful QAPI Process

CMS has published an assortment of tools and guides to help you to navigate through the implementation of your QAPI processes. The following are links to the CMS sites for more information:

https://www.cms.gov/Medicare/Provider-Enrollment-and-Certification/SurveyCertificationGenInfo/Downloads/Survey-and-Cert-Letter-13-05.pdf

https://www.cms.gov/Medicare/Provider-Enrollment-and-Certification/QAPI/nhqapi.html

https://www.cms.gov/Medicare/Provider-Enrollment-and-Certification/QAPI/Downloads/qapifiveelements.pdf

https://www.cms.gov/medicare/provider-enrollment-andcertification/qapi/downloads/processtoolframework.pdf

https://www.cms.gov/medicare/provider-enrollment-and-certification/qapi/downloads/qapiataglance.pdf

Contact Richter Healthcare Consultants with any questions you may have about the QAPI process.