SA Preparation for Validation Survey

3244 - SA Preparation for Validation Survey (Rev. 123, Issued: 10-03-14, Effective: 10-03-14, Implementation: 10-03-14) The SA follows standard survey processes when conducting validation surveys. For example, all validation surveys are unannounced. All substantial allegation validation surveys must include an assessment of compliance with the condition(s) specified by the RO; it is not acceptable for the SA to review only the record and other information related to the specific complaint. The SA assigns surveyors who normally conduct surveys of non-deemed providers or suppliers to conduct validation surveys for the same provider/supplier types. The size of the survey team and the time that the SA spends on-site must be comparable to that used by the SA for non-deemed providers/suppliers of similar size or complexity. Whenever possible, all team members should survey a provider or supplier concurrently. This applies to staff who conduct the LSC portion of a standard survey as well as to personnel who conduct the health portion of the survey. If situations occur where this is not feasible, the SA must contact the RO for further direction. As with any other Federal survey, CMS personnel may be present during the survey to provide assistance and to help assure nationwide uniformity and validity.