Each accreditation agency has checklists, self-assessments, mock surveys, or helpful hints for implementing and completing a mock inspection. CLIA preparation can be accomplished utilizing a similar tool that may require creation by the individual laboratory.
General tips for mock inspection preparation include:
- Review specific agency requirements.
- Review the most recent survey report and submit corrective action. Verify that all previous citations have been corrected per the schedule submitted with the plan of correction. Failure to correct citations issued during the previous survey will result in more severe consequences.
- Incorporate a checklist or other tool provided by the inspection agency OR create an organizational tool to utilize during the process.
- Organize a team of appropriate personnel.
- Advise all managers of the specifics (time, day, and persons participating) for the survey to be completed.
- Prior to visiting department(s), review all records available electronically. These may be electronic or hard copies.
- Visit all departments as per the published specifics.
- Conduct all steps of the survey utilizing tools created or provided. Document compliance issues and recommended corrective action.
- While surveying, looking for additional improvement opportunities.
- Provide feedback to all surveyed areas.
- Assist with the completion of corrective action with an appropriate timeline and personnel assigned to specific tasks.
- Report findings to appropriate laboratory personnel/departments.
- Follow up with management and departments throughout the corrective action phase and assist as needed.
- Before the site visit by external surveyors, review all completed corrective actions and make additional corrections as needed.
