Authors

1. Miller, Angela DNP, CRNP
2. Skoranski, Allen K. BA
3. Prior, Barbara MSN, RN, NE-BC
4. Fitzpatrick, Rebecca DNP, RN, CIC, FAPIC
5. Morgan, Cindy MSOD
6. Hepschmidt, Philynn MEd
7. Smith, Beth A. MSN, RN, NPD-BC
8. Cella, Michael BS
9. Brown McGlotten, Dawn EdD
10. Pitt, Kenya MA, MBA
11. Polomano, Rosemary C. PhD, RN, FAAN

Abstract

In ambulatory care, monitoring process performance measures (PPMs) is essential to meet regulatory requirements, establish targets for care, seek reimbursement, and evaluate patient care responsibilities. We implemented a comprehensive program, "Engage to Sustain," for licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and certified medical assistants (CMAs) to practice at the top of their licensure/certification. Screening rates for 4 key PPMs (depression screening, fall risk screening, and tobacco use screening and counseling) markedly increased following this intervention across 18 ambulatory departments with more than 2 million patient visits. These results suggest that shifting responsibilities for patient screening from physicians and advanced practitioners to LPNs and CMAs may improve screening rates.