Assessing staff competencies in psychiatric hospitals and Behavioral Health Care & Human Services organizations is essential for ensuring quality patient care and maintaining high standards across the board. However, the traditional methods of evaluation can often feel tedious and uninspiring for staff. By rethinking and revamping healthcare competency assessments, organizations can transform them into engaging and enjoyable experiences that not only measure competency but also foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement.

Understanding the Importance of Healthcare Competency Assessments

CMS, TJC, DNV, CIHQ, ACHC, CARF, Social Current (COA), and state agencies require healthcare organizations to conduct competency assessments for patient care staff.  Competency assessments are crucial in healthcare settings as they ensure that staff members possess the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their roles effectively. These assessments help identify areas where additional training may be required, ensuring that patient care is both safe and efficient. Moreover, regular assessments can boost staff confidence by recognizing their expertise and providing opportunities for professional growth.

Common Competency Assessment Requirements

• Participation in ongoing education and training

• Individuals with the educational background, experience, or knowledge related to the skills being reviewed assess competence

• Competence is assessed initially during orientation and regularly thereafter in accordance with hospital policy, law and regulation, and accreditation requirements

• Competence is documented

• Specific required competence is defined for each role including knowledge and skill and ability

• Competence should be considered based on the needs of the population served, types of procedures conducted, conditions or diagnoses treated, and the kinds of equipment being used

Common Competence Criteria Required or Recommended

• • Behavioral health conditions most commonly found in the population served

• Assessment, care, treatment, and services specific to role and population served

• • Integration and coordination of care including with physical health care providers
  • Role of families and peers in care, treatment, or services
  • Training in de-escalation, nonphysical intervention skills, physical intervention techniques, and response to emergency incidents
  • Suicide risk reduction

• Infection prevention and control policies and procedures

• Emergency management

• Environment of care

• Co-occurring mental health and substance abuse

• Practical applications of antibiotic stewardship guidelines, policies, and procedures

• Critical workflows

• Waived testing

• Clinical documentation

• Patient safety

• Workplace violence

• Health equity

• Peer support services

• other

Challenges in Traditional Competency Assessments

Traditional competency assessments often involve repetitive tasks, written tests, or checklists that can be disengaging for staff. This approach may not fully capture the dynamic nature of healthcare work or the interpersonal skills that are essential in patient care. Additionally, these assessments can feel like mere formalities rather than valuable opportunities for development.

Strategies for Revamping Competency Assessments

1. Gamification: Incorporating game-like elements into competency assessments can make the process more engaging. For example, creating scenarios where staff can earn points or badges for completing certain tasks or solving problems can motivate them to participate actively. Gamification can also foster healthy competition and collaboration among team members.
2. Simulation-Based Learning: Utilizing simulations allows staff to practice skills in a realistic but controlled environment. This method not only makes assessments more interactive but also helps staff apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations. Simulations can range from using mannequins for clinical skills to virtual reality environments for complex scenarios.
3. Assessments and Feedback:  When performed by qualified competency assessment individual, competence assessments can create a more collaborative learning environment. Staff can learn from expert colleagues through constructive feedback, promoting a culture of mutual support and continuous improvement. This approach also helps staff develop critical thinking and communication skills.
4. Case Studies and Role-Playing: Using real-life case studies and role-playing exercises can make competency assessments more relevant and engaging. These methods allow staff to think critically, make decisions, and reflect on their actions in a safe setting. Role-playing can also enhance empathy and understanding of different perspectives.
5. Incorporating Technology: Leveraging technology can streamline assessments and provide instant feedback. Online platforms can offer interactive modules and quizzes that staff can complete at their own pace. This flexibility allows staff to engage with assessments in a way that suits their schedules and learning preferences.

Benefits of Engaging Competency Assessments

Revamping competency assessments to make them more engaging can lead to numerous benefits for healthcare organizations:

• Improved Staff Morale: Engaging assessments can boost morale by making learning enjoyable and rewarding. Staff are more likely to feel valued and motivated when they see assessments as opportunities for growth rather than chores.
• Enhanced Skill Retention: Interactive and practical assessment methods can improve skill retention and application, leading to better patient care outcomes.
• Cultivation of a Learning Culture: By making assessments engaging, organizations can foster a culture of continuous learning and innovation, encouraging staff to seek out new knowledge and skills.

Useful Resources

Here are some resources and ideas for innovative behavioral healthcare competence assessment activities, including internet links: (Search Behavioral Health on each site)

Simulation-Based Learning:

Kognito Behavioral Health Simulations: Offers virtual simulations for training in behavioral health competencies, including communication and crisis intervention.

1. Standardized Patient Programs:
   • Standardized Patient and Simulation Program (SPSP): Offers resources for developing standardized patient encounters focused on mental health assessments.
   • INACSL Standards of Best Practice: Simulation: Provides guidelines for implementing standardized patient programs in behavioral health training.
2. Online Assessment Tools:
   • HealthStream:  Personalized competency development experiences.
   • Relias Behavioral Health Competency Assessment Platform: Offers an online platform for assessing competencies in behavioral health professionals through various tools and assessments
3. Competency Based Assessment Frameworks:
   • SAMHSA’s Core Competencies for Integrated Behavioral Health and Primary Care: Provides a framework for assessing competencies in integrated care settings.
   • National Council for Behavioral Health Competency Guidelines: Offers guidelines for assessing competencies in behavioral health settings.
4. Case-Based Learning and Assessment:
   • CDC Case Studies in Community and Behavioral Health: Provides case studies to enhance learning and assessment in behavioral health.
   • PsycTHERAPY by APA: A database of therapy demonstration videos for case-based learning and assessment.
5. Professional Development Programs:
   • National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Professional Development: Offers training programs focused on enhancing competencies in mental health care.
6. Continuing Education Platforms:
   • PsychArmor Institute: Provides online courses with assessments focused on behavioral health competencies.
   • Mental Health First Aid Training: Offers training programs with assessments to improve competencies in responding to mental health crises.

Barrins and Associates

Barrins can help you to implement a fun and engaging Competence Assessment Program.  Call us today to learn how we can assist you with this process.  

Barrins & Associates – “Guiding Your Success: Real-World Solutions to Meet Accreditation and/or Regulatory Challenges”