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HEALTHCARE RISK MANAGEMENT WEEK CELEBRATION
EMPHASIZES COLLABORATION
“If you ever doubt the value of your work as a healthcare risk manager, ask some trusted colleagues in your organization what they would do without a risk manager.
“They will tell you how comforting it is to them to have you by their side when something does go wrong. They will tell you what a valuable resource you are on a variety of different topics. They will tell you that you help ‘keep them honest’ by showing them the risks that they take for granted. Finally, they will tell you that they don’t want to think about working in a healthcare organization without a risk manager.
“Don’t take my word for it ... ask your colleagues.”
-- ASHRM President Paul English Smith
Healthcare Risk Management Week – set this year for June 18-22 – provides a unique nationwide forum to emphasize how risk management professionals support efforts toward safe patient care.
“Healthcare Risk Management Week is not only an opportunity to recognize the value that we provide to our organizations, but also to rededicate ourselves to ASHRM’s vision of ‘safe and trusted healthcare,’ ” adds Smith. “This year we will also explore what can be accomplished when Risk Management and Quality collaborate on achieving the common goal of patient safety.”
Special Webcast June 20
In the spirit of the week’s theme, ASHRM and the National Association for Healthcare Quality (NAHQ) are collaborating for a two-hour Webcast/audioconference.
This important and enlightening discussion on Wednesday, June 20, will bring together the Cleveland Clinic’s Director of Quality and its Director of Clinical Risk Management to show how they are implementing a major departmental restructuring that includes integrating Quality and Clinical Risk Management into 10 medical divisions and developing a new paradigm for optimal patient care delivery.
Program speakers also will include Stephen Mayfield, director of the AHA Quality Center, and others actively involved in Quality and Risk Management collaborations. A Q&A session will follow the presentations.
Activities to create interest
Successful engagement of co-workers in the risk management cause during Healthcare Risk Management Week requires some planning. Suggestions for activities can be found in calendar format on the ASHRM Web site.
Here are highlights:
* Reserve a conference room with an Internet connection and invite colleagues to join you for the June 20 Webcast/audioconference.
* Contact local civic leaders, including mayor and governor, seeking official recognition of the week. Use the sample proclamation provided on the ASHRM Web site.
Create letterhead, notecards, table tents or other promotional pieces using ASHRM’s Healthcare Risk Management Week logo.
* Solicit volunteers to accompany you as “risk managers for a day.”
* Share laminates with risk management tips on one side, your name and contact info on the other.
Items to build recognition
Again this year, ASHRM has commissioned special commemorative items for risk managers to use in promoting their cause. They display the logo that brightly symbolizes this year’s theme of partnership: “rm + q = ps” (risk management + quality = patient safety).
Exclusive 2007 logo items promoting the patient safety solution include a calculator, lapel pins, sticky notes, pen, poster and more.
Details on the Web
For details about Healthcare Risk Management Week, including local activities, sample proclamation, the Webcast/audioconference, tip cards and commemorative gifts, visit the Risk Week page or call (312) 422-3980.
CPHRM EXAMINATION: HOW IT REMAINS CURRENT
This is the third in a series of articles about the Certified Professional in Healthcare Risk Management (CPHRM) credential furnished by the AHA Certification Center.
The CPHRM Examination, like any sound professional certification examination, is based on a formal job analysis.
A job analysis begins with compilation of position descriptions, performance reviews and job logs from a sample of practicing professionals. This material is used to develop an initial list of tasks associated with the profession. The task list becomes the basis for a survey in which a larger group of professionals rate tasks for frequency of performance and importance. The profession is defined by tasks performed regularly and considered important to competent practice. These tasks provide the foundation for the examination content outline.
In 2006, the AHA Certification Center engaged a psychometric consulting firm, Applied Measurement Professionals Inc. (AMP), to update the job analysis for healthcare risk management. AMP also provides services including support for examination development, provision of test sites for computerized testing, and scoring and analysis of the examination. Use of AMP assures that the CPHRM Examination meets the highest national standards for testing.
Professions evolve
Because professions evolve, a job analysis for a certification program should be conducted every six to eight years. The initial job analysis for healthcare risk management was completed in 2000. With support from ASHRM, a new job analysis was completed in 2006. Data suggested the need for slight shifts in emphasis in the CPHRM Examination. A new examination reflecting the current practice of risk management was introduced on Nov. 1 during ASHRM’s Annual Conference.
Refreshing the job analysis is only one way that the CPHRM Examination is kept current. Other safeguards are incorporated into the examination development and scoring processes. A new examination is prepared at least every other year. Each new examination is composed of a mix of items from previously administered examination and new items selected from an item pool. The item pool is established and refreshed by conducting periodic workshops for item writers. Each workshop is led by AMP and involves at least 15 practicing healthcare risk managers.
New test items never go directly into an examination for scoring. Rather, they are pre-tested to ensure they are clear and of acceptable difficulty. Pre-test items are included on each examination but are not scored.
Creating a new exam
Creation of an examination begins with creation of a draft, which is a step performed by AMP. A mix of used and pre-tested items that meet statistical standards is selected to correspond with the examination content outline. Three new sets of items for pre-testing are also selected.
Responsibility for ensuring that items are accurate and current rests with the CPHRM Certification Program Committee. Members initially work independently by taking the draft as though they were candidates for computerized testing.
After AMP compiles comments from committee members, the Certification Center schedules a comprehensive review of the draft. Review meetings are conducted either in person or by a process that connects members concurrently by computer and conference telephone call. Items are considered individually. The standard for retaining an item for the final examination is unanimous approval by committee members. Items that fail to satisfy this standard are either modified or replaced. Replacements must be selected from the same category and cognitive level of the examination content outline. A full review of a new examination typically requires two full days of committee meetings and additional time for individual reviews. AMP incorporates changes, and the committee confirms that changes are reflected appropriately.
Although the nature of review by the Certification Program Committee is the primary safeguard that a new examination contains accurate, up-to-date information, two other safeguards deserve mention:
1. The chair of the Certification Program Committee reviews test items where an unexpectedly high percentage of candidates selected the same incorrect answer. If the item is unclear, it may be eliminated from scoring so as not to affect a candidate’s score.
2. Because the Regulatory/Accreditation Compliance section of the CPHRM Examination addresses laws and administrative standards developed by other organizations, such as EMTALA/COBRA, HIPAA, PSDA and OSHA, a mechanism is needed to keep abreast of these laws and standards. When a law or administrative standard is modified, the committee chair reviews test items related to the standard to evaluate impact. Again, if an item is no longer current, it may be eliminated from scoring.
These last two safeguards have rarely affected the CPHRM Examination, but they are important to assure healthcare risk managers that examination content remains current.
For details on the CPHRM Certification Program, visit the AHA Certification Center web site or contact the AHA Certification Center at mlawrence@aha.org or (312) 422-3713.
Job Analysis Task Force, CPHRM Certification Program Committee
(All CPHRMs)
Barbara F. Lightizer, committee chair, Boston; Pamela L. Popp, task force chair, Denver; Geraldine (Geri) H. Amori, Shelburne, VT; Cynthia Z. Beckman, Philadelphia; Debra L. Bittle, Havre de Grace, MD; Margaret Hambleton, Pasadena, CA; Toni L. Hendel, Irvine, CA; Vivian B. Miller, Elkridge, MD; and Ellen Grady Venditti, Hyannis, MA.
NEW PATIENT SAFETY CURRICULUM DEBUTS IN JULY
ASHRM builds upon its leadership position in the dynamic patient safety movement with a newly redesigned Patient Safety Curriculum.
The faculty of experienced patient safety practitioners will lead risk management professionals beyond the history and fundamental theories of patient safety and share the tools to apply patient safety principles in practice.
The most practical content from the previous three-part curriculum is combined into two parts and enhanced by adult learning methods driven by past participant feedback. Faculty members actively engage participants to collaborate in solving patient safety dilemmas. The curriculum concludes with an interactive day-long workshop to explore how typical challenges can be overcome through solutions learned during the curriculum and/or from faculty and participants’ shared experience.
For optimal benefit, the two-part curriculum should be taken sequentially, but parts may be taken individually. Participants will receive a certificate of attendance for each session and a final certificate will be awarded for completing the entire curriculum.
Those who have attended sessions of the previous curriculum can review the new program agenda to determine whether any additional training would be helpful.
The course sessions will be offered just one time this year – Basic Principles on July 23-24, and Advanced Principles on July 25-26. All sessions will be in Chicago at the Hyatt Regency Chicago. Earlybird registration discounts will end June 22; special ASHRM room rate discounts will end June 28.
Visit the Education section for agendas and additional details or call (312) 422-3980.
2007 CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS
Barton modules continue in June, October
Registration is now open for the 2007 Barton Certificate Program in Healthcare Risk Management. The Essentials Module (June 11-13, Oct. 7-9) is the educational foundation for major functions needed for effective health care risk management. The Applications Module (June 13-15) provides in-depth discussions for professionals with one to five years of experience, and the Advanced Forum Module (June 11-13) facilitates critical thinking and analysis of current issues for risk management professionals with more than five years of experience. All modules will be offered in Chicago. Visit the Education section for Barton Modules details or call (312) 422-3980.
Bermuda Captive Conference set for Sept. 16-19
Save the dates of Sept. 17-20 for the annual Bermuda Captive Conference, presented in part by ASHRM and its affiliated Bermuda chapter. The program will focus on issues of interest to captive owners, prospective owners and market professionals with emphasis on healthcare captives planned for Tuesday, Sept. 18. Other sessions will cover the basics of captive formation and discuss why Bermuda is a leading domicile. Discounted registration for ASHRM members is $250 until June 30; $300 thereafter. The event will be held at the Fairmont Southampton Hotel in Southampton, Bermuda. The room rate for participants is $259. For Bermuda Captive Conference program details, visit www.bermudacaptive.bm.
Local CPHRM exam prep courses scheduled
Risk management professionals who are planning to take the CPHRM examination or are eligible for renewal and want a refresher may benefit from ASHRM’s CPHRM Examination Preparation Course. This overview of material corresponds to the content areas of the exam (detailed in the CPHRM Candidate Handbook ) and can help test-takers focus on areas for further study or review once-familiar subjects. One-day versions of the prep course are offered through local chapters. For locations and dates, visit the Chapters Calendar. The course also will be offered Oct. 9-10 in Chicago before ASHRM’s Annual Conference; details will be announced in late May.
Programs now available on demand
Recordings of ASHRM audioconferences and Webcasts now are offered online, on demand, within 48 hours of the programs. This convenient new feature enables ASHRM members to listen and learn at their convenience with no waiting for a CD recording to arrive. (CD recordings will continue to be available.)
On-demand access includes the entire original program and immediate access to a printable, electronic version of handouts. Pre-registration for on-demand access to upcoming programs is available, also. Original purchasers get unlimited viewing/access for 30 days from the date of purchase or the program, whichever is later. For details, including on-demand availability of recent programs, visit the ASHRM Audio Conference Archives and select the “Recordings” link.
ASHRM FOUNDATION AWARDS $10,000 RESEARCH GRANT
Deborah F. Mulloy of the University of Massachusetts Boston-Center for Survey Research in Boston is the latest recipient of a $10,000 research grant from the ASHRM Foundation. The award recognizes Mulloy as an individual pursuing professional excellence in the healthcare risk management field.
Grant awardees must meet the application criteria in the areas of current employment in finance, insurance or healthcare risk management. They must also provide a financial need for funding and a letter of recommendation.
Interested applicants for future grant awards are invited to visit www.ashrmfoundation.org for guidelines or call (312) 422-3980.
Advanced learning grants available
The ASHRM Foundation supports advanced learning by providing educational grants up to $1,000 for individuals interested in continuing their education in clinical, legal and regulatory and/or risk financing aspects of risk management. Also, the foundation supports qualified individuals seeking advanced degrees in risk management, insurance, finance, clinical areas and healthcare management by awarding scholarships up to $2,500.
To facilitate the identification of best practices in risk financing, claims administration and patient safety, the foundation awards full or partial research grants. Upcoming 2007 application deadlines are June 29, Sept. 28 and Dec. 21.
Interested applicants are invited to visit www.ashrmfoundation.org for guidelines or call (312) 422-3980.
Building the foundation
Financial contributions for these awards come from industry, individuals and ASHRM chapters. The Chicagoland Healthcare Risk Management Society recently donated $2,500.
The ASHRM Foundation’s planned giving program also offers a wide variety of options for those who are interested in including ASHRM in their financial and estate planning while enjoying applicable tax advantages. Through a memorial or honorary gift to the ASHRM Foundation, individuals or corporations can support its mission while paying tribute to an individual or loved one.
To support the future of safe and trusted healthcare through the ASHRM Foundation, send tax-deductible donations to:
ASHRM Foundation
One N. Franklin
Chicago, IL 60606
Checks should be payable to HRET/ASHRM Foundation. The ASHRM Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization and is eligible for a number of companies’ matching funds programs. For details on giving, call (312) 422-3980.
Save the date
The ASHRM Foundation’s second annual gala will be held Friday evening, Oct. 12, at the Hyatt Regency Chicago. Plans will be announced in late May at www.ashrmfoundation.org.
About the foundation
The ASHRM Foundation was established in 2004 by ASHRM in cooperation with the HRET. The ASHRM Foundation was developed to help facilitate the advancement of the risk management professional by funding education, scholarships and research projects. The mission of the foundation is to secure resources and administer assets that provide support for meeting ASHRM’s strategic goals in education and research.
ADVOCACY UPDATE: ASHRM PROMOTES THE PROFESSION
As the profession’s principal advocate, ASHRM continuously identifies issues and tracks legislation and regulation that can have an impact on the field of healthcare risk management. ASHRM also collaborates with organizations to represent and promote the contributions risk management is making in healthcare. Following is a report on ASHRM’s activities:
On Feb. 23 in Chicago, ASHRM President Paul Smith represented ASHRM at the Joint Commission Summit on Wrong Site Surgery. The summit reviewed experience with the Universal Protocol, examined barriers to compliance with the performance expectations set forth in the Universal Protocol and explored strategies for eliminating wrong site surgery.
On March 14 in Chicago, ASHRM Data for Safety Task Force members Susan Chmieleski, Ronni Solomon and Susan Salpeter participated in a panel discussion at the Professional Liability Underwriting Society (PLUS) Medical Professional Liability Symposium titled “Is Patient Safety Really Working?” They shared their professional insights on this topic and presented an overview of the ASHRM Data for Safety Initiative.
On April 12 in Tucson, AZ, ASHRM Past-presidents Peggy Martin and Geri Amori co-facilitated general sessions at the Society for Healthcare Consumer Advocacy (SHCA) annual conference. They explored teamwork, communication skills, interaction among executives and clinical leaders, issues of disclosure to patients and families and considerations for caring for caregiver.
Scheduled ASHRM outreaches include the following events:
On April 30 in Washington, D.C., ASHRM President-elect Douglas Borg will serve as faculty for the HRET/NPSF Patient Safety Leadership Fellowship session. He will share risk management insights on the role of investigations of adverse events and disclosure with Patient Safety Fellows.
On May 15 in Bethesda, MD, ASHRM Board members Kathleen Murray and Mary Anne Hilliard will present with John Gosbee from the University of Michigan on “The Use of Risk Management Tools in the Hospital Setting.” The session is being offered at the Global Approaches to Risk Management throughout Product Life Cycles 2nd Congress organized and sponsored by the FDA, AVAMED and Virginia Tech.
On June 23 in San Jose, CA, ASHRM’s President Smith will attend the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) Annual Conference to present an update on ASHRM activities and discuss possible ASHRM and APIC collaborative efforts.
NEW CPHRMS
The Certified Professional in Healthcare Risk Management designation provides a credential that verifies a broad-based knowledge of risk management. Certification elevates professionals in an increasingly competitive marketplace.
Congratulations to recent CPHRM achievers:
Sandra Ann Care, West Frankfort, IL
Candace Lee Foster, Evansville, IN
Rodney Louis Gunderson, Morgantown, WV
Sharon L. Harwood, Norwalk, OH
Janet Ann Jackson, Tulsa, OK
Susan Gale Koontz, Aurora, CO
Nancy Lagorio, Vernon Hills, IL
Morgan F. Landi, Janesville, WI
Beth W. Munz, Fort Wayne, IN
Carole Newell, Brandon, MS
Gina E. Overpeck, East Stroudsburg, PA
Kris E. Oliveira, Portsmouth, RI
Patrick Palmieri, Lubbock, TX
Debra Rae Saucerman, Green Cove Springs, FL
Janet L. Schaffner, Jefferson City, MO
Tamala Shields, Kansas City, MO
Michael Thomas Smith, MosesLake, WA
David Joseph Stach, Fort Wayne, IN
Becky Jane Starzynski, South Bend, IN
Jeanette Pauline Stubberud, Anchorage, AK
The CPHRM designation is awarded based on participants meeting eligibility requirements and passing an examination.
For details about the designation, download the updated CPHRM Candidate Handbook from the AHA Certification Center via www.aha.org/certification or call (312) 422-3713.
Applying, scheduling online
CPHRM candidates who pay by credit card can apply for the examination online and schedule an appointment to test in one visit. This tool may be used for computer-based testing only.
The steps are easy: 1) visit www.goAMP.com, 2) click on “Candidates,” 3) select the “Healthcare” category, 4) select the “AHA Certification Center” program, 5) select the CPHRM examination application, 6) select “Register for Exam,” 7) log-in as a new user to create a certification profile, and 8) follow the prompts to enter application information, eligibility and payment information, then schedule the exam.
Note: When setting up an account: 1) click on “Member,” then 2) enter your ASHRM member number. Page11 of the CPHRM Candidate Handbook provides an additional explanation of the process.
In other service improvements have been made in response to applicants’ requests:
Testing sessions are now offered at AMP Assessment Centers at 9 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Saturdays
In the past, AMP has scheduled candidates for testing within four days of processing an application and determining eligibility for an examination, based on availability at the requested Assessment Center. That timeframe has been cut to two days.
ON THE MOVE
Sally Whitaker, RN, CPHRM, to risk management consultant, AIG Programs, Wake Forest, NC
Theresa M. Zimmerman, RN, JD, to corporate patient safety officer, Catholic Healthcare Partners, Cincinnati
Make sure your peers know where to find you now. Send notices for On the Move to ashrm@aha.org. Member contact details may be found in the ASHRM member directory at www.ashrm.org.
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