Barrins Bulletin
October 2024
Greetings to Our Colleagues in Behavioral Health!
As fall ushers in its cooler temperatures and breathtaking colors, it serves as a reminder of change and growth – not only in nature but within the communities we serve. This season invites us to pause, reflect, and consider how we, as behavioral health organizations, can continue to support those navigating their own transitions.
In this edition of our Behavioral Health Newsletter, we delve into the critical importance of creating safer environments – both for our dedicated staff and for the vulnerable individuals who rely on our care. Ensuring safety goes beyond physical measures; it encompasses fostering a culture of safety – a just culture, and mutual respect. As behavioral health organizations, our responsibility is to cultivate spaces where staff feel empowered and supported, enabling them to provide the highest quality of care. At the same time, we must continue to safeguard the dignity, privacy, and security of those we serve, recognizing their unique needs and vulnerabilities. This issue highlights strategies, best practices, and innovative approaches to improving safety, reducing workplace violence, and promoting healing environments that prioritize the well-being of all involved. Together, let’s commit to creating safer, more nurturing spaces where everyone can thrive.
Our newsletter is designed to support behavioral health organizations through this transition by offering clear, straightforward regulatory and accreditation updates, along with practical compliance tips to help navigate these challenges smoothly.
As always, we appreciate your input on the newsletter. Please take a moment to share your comments and let us know your thoughts. Additionally, we welcome suggestions for topics you would like to see covered in future issues. We eagerly anticipate hearing from you! Don’t hesitate to forward this newsletter to your colleagues; their insights are invaluable to us as well.
Best Regards,
In behavioral health settings, reporting near misses is a cornerstone of fostering a culture of safety. Near misses – incidents that could have resulted in harm but did not – are crucial learning opportunities that help prevent future adverse events. The Joint Commission (TJC) emphasizes the importance of…
Workplace violence (WPV) in psychiatric hospitals and community behavioral health centers remains a significant concern. According to The Joint Commission’s recent EC News and Quick Safety articles, implementing de-escalation techniques plays a critical role in…
A Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP) is essential for any organization to mitigate the negative impacts of operational disruptions, such as power failures, cyber-attacks, or natural disasters that can halt the ability to provide medical care. Without a COOP, patient care and safety may be compromised, and organizations risk financial losses and reputational damage due to their inability to maintain care during crises.
Many healthcare organizations are required to have a COOP to comply with regulations, and failure to do so can lead to legal consequences. A well-structured COOP helps coordinate staff and resources effectively during emergencies, ensuring the organization can continue providing safe patient care even under challenging conditions.
Don’t forget to include the following elements in your plan:
- Administrative and vital records
- Information technology
- Financial services
- Security systems
- Communications/telecommunications
- Essential and critical building operations
We were founded by Anne Barrins, former Joint Commission surveyor, and are succeeded by Julia Finken, former Joint Commission surveyor, Associate Director of Business Development for the Home Care Program, and Executive Director of Business Development for the Behavioral Health Care and Psychiatric Hospital Programs.
Why Choose Us
“The Barrins consultant surveyed very closely to how a real TJC surveyor completes their survey. He was professional, polite, kind, and knowledgeable. He gave staff a chance to learn and improve for when they are in front of a Joint Commission surveyor. His feedback was valued and appreciated by our entire organization.”
Lacey S. LeMaster
Quality Director
Twin Valley Behavioral Healthcare, OH DMHAS
Columbus, Ohio
Are You Survey Ready?
At Barrins & Associates we can assist you to achieve and sustain accreditation and regulatory compliance in adherence to the TJC, DNV, CHIQ, ACHC, CARF, COA, and CMS standards for psychiatric hospitals and community behavioral health and human services providers.
Inquire today about our consulting services.
We continue to support your journey toward accreditation and regulatory compliance.