Whether your organization relies on an in-house team or enlists the help of an outside consultant, conducting a mock survey is an essential strategy to assess your organization’s current performance against the standards set by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), improving your chances of securing a higher star rating.
In 2025, healthcare providers are still navigating the long-term impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, alongside new challenges like workforce instability, ongoing staffing shortages, and the increasing complexity of healthcare regulations including those related to telehealth and value-based care. Many providers have reported more challenging interactions with surveyors, leading to higher rates of deficiencies compared to pre-pandemic levels. Healthcare teams, having faced years of disruption, may find themselves less familiar with survey processes and expectations, making preparation even more critical.
To help mitigate these challenges, providers are turning to mock surveys ahead of their annual CMS survey. A mock survey allows your team to identify and resolve potential issues before surveyors arrive, ensuring that your organization is prepared and confident when the real survey happens.
The Key Benefits of a Mock Survey:
- Identify Gaps and Improve Compliance: A mock survey gives you a comprehensive review of your organization’s compliance with CMS regulations, highlighting areas of weakness before they are flagged by actual surveyors.
- Boost Staff Confidence and Preparedness: With the right training and preparation, your staff will feel more comfortable answering questions and providing necessary documentation, which is essential for a smooth, efficient survey.
- Strengthen Organizational Culture: The process of preparing for and conducting a mock survey can foster a culture of continuous improvement, encouraging your team to focus on best practices year-round.
Why Should I Use a Consultant for a Mock Survey?
While some organizations conduct internal mock surveys, there are several reasons why bringing in an external consultant can be more effective. For one, pulling internal teams away from their regular duties to focus on the mock survey may be difficult. Additionally, even with the necessary staff, they may not have enough training to execute a comprehensive mock survey on their own.
By partnering with a skilled consultant, you can leverage their expertise without pulling your team away from their core responsibilities. Consultants bring specialized knowledge and fresh perspectives, ensuring that you receive a thorough and objective evaluation of your organization’s readiness.
What Does a Mock Survey Consultant Look For?
Our consultants at LW Consulting, Inc. are not just experts in regulations—they’ve also worked firsthand in direct care settings, providing the same services your team provides every day. With years of experience working with various organizations, our consultants can offer valuable insights into areas where you may need improvement, all while suggesting actionable solutions rooted in industry-leading best practices.
Since our consultants approach the survey from an outsider’s perspective, they can provide a more accurate and unbiased assessment of your organization’s performance. Their approach ensures you get an honest representation of what surveyors will expect during your actual survey.
Don’t leave your survey results to chance—ensure you’re fully prepared with a mock survey that sets your team up for success.
Contact us today to discuss your mock survey and start preparing for your next CMS survey with confidence!
