While this list isn’t exhaustive, it may help your organization identify some steps to take when implementing interRAI assessments.
Step 1: Define your current state
- Where is your organization now when it comes to using interRAI assessments?
- Identify the differences between the new interRAI system and the one(s) your organization is currently using. This step should be factored into your implementation plan timelines.
- Can interRAI assessments replace some or all of your current assessments?
Step 2: Conduct a readiness assessment
- Consider all that’s involved and assess your organization’s level of readiness to achieve the results, do the work and complete the project. Some things to think about include
- How and when to implement an assessment and its related business processes
- How your organization will absorb the changes arising from implementation
- Your staff’s ongoing ability to manage those changes
Step 3: Design a business case
- A business case captures the rationale for initiating a change, project or task to support your specific business need — in this case, implementing the interRAI assessment system in your organization.
- There are many good templates that you can use to construct a business case, including this one from Canada Health Infoway.
Step 4: Identify a sponsor for the project
- Ideally, this person is at a level in the organization that will allow him or her to articulate and defend the needs of the project at the senior management level.
- Sponsorship should be broadly shared, but there still needs to be clear accountability.
Step 5: Set up a steering committee
This group’s main purpose is to keep the implementation project on schedule and on budget. Tasks might include
- Setting metrics and indicators to evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of the project
- Developing and implementing a communication plan, external and internal
Your external communication plan should
- Explain to stakeholders why your organization is implementing the interRAI assessment system
- Highlight the key message that more accurate and consistent assessments mean better quality care
- Focus on success stories that highlight the interRAI assessment system
Your internal communication plan should
- Cover all levels of the organization
- Meet needs ranging from awareness to availability of technical detail
- Clearly explain how and when implementation will occur, how it will be monitored and how decisions on realigned priorities and resources will be made