Accreditation essentials 2009 update

We have recently reviewed and updated our assessor resources including the Results and processes guide, the Audit handbook, and the book of Assessment modules (including two new modules).

As part of our approach to transparency, these updated resources can be downloaded for free. While the Results and processes guide, Audit handbook and Assessment modules are written to guide assessors in their role, they are also very valuable tools for homes to conduct their own internal assessments.

The documents can be downloaded for free, or you can purchase bound copies by ordering the ‘Accreditation Essentials’

Results and processes guide

The Results and processes guide assists assessors in identifying and considering relevant results and processes and key areas where we would expect to see positive outcomes in relation to each of the expected outcomes of the Accreditation Standards.

The guide has been updated following reviews on research, legislation and other materials. It is also amended to reflect the result of targeted projects, such as a research project on how we assess expected outcome 2.15 Oral and dental care.

The guide has also been improved to ensure:
·        language reflects Agency style, and promotes a resident focussed approach
·        information is easy to understand and flows in a logical order.

Due to the various legislation changes, we have also included increased information from the aged care principles including excerpts from the Accountability Principles 1998 and Records Principles 1997.

Audit handbook

The Audit handbook is guide to the conduct of audits and support contacts. All assessors follow the methodology and procedures described in the handbook.

While the core audit methodology has not changed, we have improved this handbook to ensure information is easier to find, and to better facilitate the work undertaken by assessors. This has included the following:

·        information on using an interpreter
·        aligning information with our website fact sheets
·        simplifying information relating to continuous improvement processes
·        providing a sample site schedule based on key systems
·        improving the index to make information easier to find.

Assessment modules

The Assessment modules have been improved to align with changes to the Results and processes guide. As a result of feedback from assessors and observation visits, the modules have also been enhanced to include more information on the sorts of evidence to review. The layout has been improved to make them easier to use.

In early 2009 we introduced module 13 which uses resident interviews as a means of directing enquiry about the Accreditation Standards. We also released module 14 which uses management, supply and maintenance systems as a means of directing enquiry about the Accreditation Systems.

The modules are a thematic approach to assessment, and have attracted international interest from other accreditation bodies.