Closing the Loop: Establishing Compliance Workflows in ASC Governance for Credentialing & Privileging

Overview of Credentialing Challenges for Ambulatory Surgery Centers

Navigating healthcare regulations can be a significant challenge for Ambulatory Surgery Centers (ASCs). Often smaller in scale, with an average of 2-4 operating rooms, these centers often face staffing constraints due to budget limitations and the current healthcare landscape. The healthcare sector is grappling with a workforce crisis as unstable working conditions contribute to widespread burnout and staffing shortages. A staggering 55% of healthcare workers report feeling burned out, with resignations up by 31%. The nursing shortage is growing, with job vacancies increasing by 30%. If this trend continues, we could face a shortage of 3.2 million healthcare workers by 2026. Work overload is a key driver of burnout and turnover, with overloaded workers 2.2 to 2.9 times more likely to burn out and 1.7 to 2.1 times more likely to leave their jobs within two years. As a result, ASC team members are frequently required to wear multiple hats, including taking on the responsibility of managing the complex credentialing process.

The Link Between Burnout and ASC Credentialing Complexity

Credentialing is far more complex than just collecting applications and running regulatory reports. In 2023, accreditation agencies identified governance of medical staff as one of the top deficiencies in healthcare organizations, with issues such as providers failing to obtain the correct qualifications or approvals. The Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC) also highlighted credentialing and privileges as one of the top five failed survey elements. This process requires a thorough review and approval from the board of directors to ensure compliance and maintain high standards of care. Given its complexity and importance, credentialing is a critical component in safeguarding patient safety and the integrity of healthcare services. So, how can ASCs ensure they are effectively completing the necessary credentialing steps?

Streamlining Credentialing to Ensure Compliance

One effective strategy is to utilize healthcare platforms that offer electronic storage for credentials and files. While this is an important first step, it does not fully close the loop on tracking applicants through the various stages: temporary privileges, governing body approval, and initial appointments. This is where platforms like PreferredMD come into play, providing essential tools to streamline the entire process.

For example, a surgery center’s bylaws may specify that a surgeon is granted temporary privileges by the Medical Director, with the initial appointment established after review and approval by the governing board. With PreferredMD, this entire process can be documented and managed efficiently through its workflow features.

Granting Temporary Privileges Process with PreferredMD: Step-by-Step

Here’s how ASCs can use PreferredMD to streamline the privileging processes:

1. Compile the Credentialing Packet: Gather the necessary documents, including supporting documentation and the Declaration of Privileges (DOP), within the PreferredMD credentialing tab.

2. Notify the Medical Director: The Medical Director will receive an email notification to review the file, which simplifies the approval process.

3. Sign the Temporary Privileges Letter: After completing the review, the Medical Director can sign the temporary privileges letter directly within the platform.

4. QAPI & Governing Board Committee: Once the applicant has been approved for temporary privileges, their request will be included in the quarterly Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) meeting. Utilizing the provided templates, the QAPI team can easily search for and add the credentialed file for review. Both the QAPI committee and the Governing Board have the capability to evaluate and approve the applicant.

5. Close the Loop: Finally, upon approval, the applicant will receive an electronically signed letter for their records, and the entire process will be stored in the surgeon’s credentialing profile.

Benefits of a Streamlined Credentialing System for ASCs

By effectively leveraging these workflow tools, ASCs can close the loop on credentialing, ensuring compliance and enhancing operational efficiency. This not only streamlines workflows, but ultimately supports better patient care, allowing healthcare teams to focus on what they do best. When ASCs adopt advanced credentialing tools, they position themselves as leaders in safe, compliant, and efficient healthcare delivery.

Interested in discovering more of PreferredMD's features and how your ASC will benefit? Schedule a demo and let's discuss your needs.