Description
The Quality Improvement Specialist (QIS) plays a pivotal role in supporting nursing homes participating in the CMS Quality Improvement Network–Quality Improvement Organization (QIN-QIO) program. Responsibilities include conducting root cause analyses and developing customized action plans based on evidence-based interventions. The QIS collaborates closely with nursing home teams to support the effective use of Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) as the foundation for implementing strategies that drive measurable improvements in healthcare quality and resident safety. Acting as a trusted advisor, the QIS provides technical assistance, coaching, education, and training while fostering strong relationships with nursing home leaders. Key initiatives align with CMS priorities and address multiple areas of nursing home quality, such as:
- Healthcare-associated infections
- Readmissions
- Falls with major injury
- Antipsychotics
- Pressure injuries
- Adverse drug events
- Vaccinations
Core Competencies, Duties, and Responsibilities
- Serve as the primary liaison for assigned nursing homes, building strong relationships and supporting participation in quality improvement initiatives.
- Communicate complex healthcare concepts, quality improvement, and performance expectations clearly through meetings, written materials, and virtual engagements.
- Apply evidence-based quality improvement methodologies (i.e., QAPI, PDSA) to co-design action plans with nursing homes that will improve quality and resident safety.
- Provide tailored technical assistance, education, training, and QI coaching to nursing homes and stakeholders to support sustainable improvement.
- Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to implement effective interventions and develop tools and resources.
- Maintain current knowledge of quality improvement best practices and applicable regulatory requirements (e.g., CMS, CDC).
- Manage multiple nursing homes as assigned, meeting established deadlines, demonstrating strong organizational skills, adaptability, accountability, and extended hours, on occasion.
Education and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in healthcare related field required; master’s degree preferred.
- Leadership experience in a nursing home setting preferred (e.g., Administrator, Director of Nursing, Infection Preventionist).
- Minimum of 5 years working in or with nursing homes preferred.
Other Qualifications
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, including experience delivering presentations, conducting training, and engaging with providers via phone and email.
- Detail-oriented with strong initiative, sound judgment, and the ability to manage multiple priorities independently.
- Strong problem-solving skills
- Ability to interpret and utilize data for quality improvement and resident safety initiatives.
- Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
