Although the goals of competency assessment are the same for advanced practice professionals (APP) and physicians, the way in which the medical staff goes about it may differ. The medical staff should work with APPs to develop the process, which may include defining specific quality indicators and deciding how to collect data on an ongoing basis.

Phishing emails and their viruses are used to obtain credit card numbers, usernames, passwords, and (in the case of hospitals) patient records and data. The spread of WannaCry ransomware in 2017 (which hobbled one-fifth of the United Kingdom’s National Health Service) was largely attributed to phishing emails.

Consider testing how well staff practice safe email infection control by having your IT staff send a fake message to track who opens an attachment or clicks on a suspicious link.

Writing books/columns and speaking on webinars and at seminars are great ways to share your industry knowledge with peers. With the guidance of a solid publishing company, you’ll see your thoughts and tips become beacons to others in your field. We’re always looking for new authors, speakers, and reviewers. For more than 20 years, HCPro has been a leading provider of integrated healthcare information, education, training, and consulting products. Among HCPro’s need-to-know information products are a vast array of books, newsletters, websites, annual webinars, and annual live events.