Dementia-Focused Survey Pilot Lands in New York

The NYS Department of Health is participating in a pilot program testing a dementia-focused survey process. Recently, the Dementia-Focused Survey was piloted at a facility in the Albany area and resulted in no deficiencies for the facility.  The survey team consisted of two surveyors from central office in Albany, two from New Rochelle, one from Syracuse, and one who was contracted with CMS – Alice Bonner PHD, RN.  The survey focused on residents who had a diagnosis of dementia and residents who were receiving antipsychotic medications.  

The team observed staff and resident interactions, conducted many interviews with nursing assistants about residents in their care, attended care conferences, and examined training records for staff and volunteers related to dementia, and employee payroll for those caring for dementia residents. They wanted to speak with professional medical staff and the psychiatrist about alternative treatment options, as well as practices related to antipsychotic use.  The survey team was interested in how changes in condition are communicated, the formulation of advance directives, and specific policies and procedures related to dementia care. In addition, they performed some of the usual survey procedures, such as observation of meals, med pass, and treatments.

This new approach is likely to be emulated by our traditional survey teams.  While an increased focus on antipsychotics and activities has already been noted, specific policies and procedures related to the care of the dementia population are receiving heightened attention. 

Contact: Michelle Synakowski, msynakowski@leadingageny.org, 518-867-8850.