Complaints Investigator, Registered Nurse (HP III), Academy and Workforce Development - HFEMSD

State of Colorado•Denver, CO

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Health Facilities and Emergency Medical Services Division (HFEMSD) is responsible for the oversight and enforcement of a broad range of federal and state statutes and regulations applicable to a wide variety of health care facilities and services in Colorado, including hospitals, clinics, ambulatory surgical facilities, renal dialysis centers, emergency medical services providers, designated trauma centers, long term care facilities, and many other specific types of health care services. The division licenses, certifies and surveys healthcare facilities and services; provides patient safety and healthcare quality programs; recognizes Emergency Medical Service (EMS) education programs and certifies EMS providers, designates trauma centers and licenses all air and ground ambulance services operating within the state of Colorado. This work unit exists to: (1) protect the health, safety, and welfare of patients/residents of health care facilities in the state of Colorado by evaluating and securing compliance of licensed and certified facilities and providers, utilizing applicable federal and state laws/regulations and professional standards of practice; and (2) to provide to the public information on health care facilities. The purpose of this position is to assess the care, treatment and quality of life provided by health care facilities through observations, interviews, and record review. Uses experience, training and judgment in evaluating and applying statutes, regulations, guidelines, policies and procedures on a case-by-case, item-by-item basis for facility compliance/violation. Works as the RN required for the survey team, and conducts nursing observations and medication pass tasks, and other tasks as applicable. Reviews occurrences and incidents of serious deficiencies and assesses whether licensed health facilities intervened appropriately. Writes statements of deficiencies, identifying areas of non-compliance with federal and state requirements based on survey/investigation results. Acts as resource, educator, and interpreter of regulations for service providers and consumers, based upon established guidelines, policies and procedures.

Requirements

Current, valid licensure as a Registered Nurse from the Colorado Board of Nursing or any state participating in the Enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact (eNLC).
Six (6) years of relevant experience in applicable health care in a facility or program regulated by the Health Facilities and Emergency Medical Services Division, experience in healthcare regulatory compliance or surveying, or other closely related experience.
Proficiency in fundamental computer skills such as navigating operating systems, using basic software applications, and communicating through email is required.
Must maintain RN licensure.
Must be available in the event of an emergency, (e.g., bio-terrorist attack, chemical attack, disease outbreak or all hazards) and be required to report to work immediately at the regular or alternate location. During this time, travel restrictions may be in place.
Must be available in the event of the activation of the Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP) and be required to report to work immediately at the regular or alternate location. During this time, travel restrictions may be in place.
Must be willing to work occasional evening, night, weekend, or holidays depending upon circumstances of survey or complaint.
Must be able to lift and carry up to 40lbs. of equipment for extended periods of time.
Must be able to walk or stand for extended periods of time including walking up and down multiple flights of stairs.
Must be able to hold a tablet computer in a standing position.
Must be vaccinated against COVID19.
Must obtain an influenza shot annually prior to the onset of the flu season or wear a mask while on facility/agency premises.
Must be willing to work in environments where contagious diseases may be present.
Must be willing to perform annual fit testing for N-95 masks, as well as complete annual training on donning and doffing of personal protective equipment (PPE).
Once employed in this position, must successfully complete and apply all required surveyor training (unless training is unavailable) within the first six (6) months of service.
Requires the use and operation of state fleet vehicles.

Nice To Haves

Relevant experience with the State of Colorado.
Non-clinical or clinical health care experience, preferably in an assisted living residence, homecare, hospice or closely related agency but will consider other areas such as acute care, nursing facilities, etc.
Experience with evaluating a health care facility's quality of care, services, and treatment of the residents/clients.
Experience to evaluate facility practices through observations and record review.
Experience with conducting interviews with residents/patients, family members, staff, outside agencies and medical professionals.
Experience with analyzing evidence and survey results to determine if and why a healthcare facility is out of compliance with applicable statutes and regulations.
Experience writing clear, concise, and legally defensible statements of deficiencies.
Experience and proficiency in word processing and able to use current communication technology.
Ability to analyze and interpret clinical evidence and observe, record, and interpret information.
Ability to perform the physical demands of this active position.
Thoroughness when performing work and conscientiousness in attention to detail.
Ability to gather relevant information; identify and analyze problems using sound reasoning to arrive at conclusions.
Model high standards of honesty, integrity, trust, openness and respect for individuals.
Interpersonal and Conflict Management Skills- Displays understanding, courtesy, tact, empathy and concern; develops and maintains effective relationships; deals skillfully with people who are difficult, hostile or distressed; effectively manages and resolves conflicts, confrontations and disagreements in a positive and constructive way; does not avoid conflict when it can produce better solutions.
Ability to analyze the information and reach logical well supported conclusions.

Responsibilities

On an unannounced basis, independently or as a member of an interdisciplinary team, determines whether the entity is operating in compliance with applicable statutes/regulations.
Assesses and evaluates health care facility/agency quality of care, services, and treatment of the residents/patients as well as facility practices through observation, record review, as interviews with residents/patients, family members, staff, and outside agency and medical professionals.
RN serves as a clinical resource to determine whether the delivery of nursing care is in accordance with professional standards of practice and relevant state and federal requirements are being met.
Writes clear, concise, and legally defensible statements of deficiencies based on analysis of the documented findings and extensive knowledge of these laws, regulations and guidelines as set forth in the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and State regulations, Principles of Documentation, and program specific protocols, policies and procedures, as applicable.
Analyzes the data gathered during the investigation and, if substantiated, determines the appropriate regulatory citations to be issued.
Advises, counsels and provides guidance to facility/agency administrators/staff regarding the purpose/reason for the regulations, and how to/or why areas are non-compliant.
Advises health care facility/agency providers, health care consumers, and other governmental agencies regarding regulatory requirements.
Attends meetings, serves on task forces or teams, completes projects, and performs other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Benefits

Medical and dental plans.
Colorado PERA retirement options, including defined benefit plan or defined contribution plan.
Optional 401(K) and 457 retirement plans.
Employer-paid life insurance.
Short- and long-term disability coverage.
Potential flexible working arrangements
11 paid holidays per year and generous paid time off.
Free parking and access to RTD bus lines.
Tuition assistance.
Employee wellness programs.
Professional development opportunities.
Career opportunities throughout Colorado state government.
Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.