Frequently Asked Questions About SCIP

What is a SCIP IPG?

A SCIP IPG consists of 35-40 hospitals that are interested in focusing on improving surgical care to their patient population.

Is participation in SCIP mandatory?

Participation in SCIP is not required at this time. However, it is likely that some SCIP measures will become part of the national hospital quality measures.

How long will SCIP chart abstraction take?

Testing has determined that the improved version of the abstraction tool along with abstractor experience, has reduced abstraction time to a minimum of 20 minutes per chart. Hospitals that use EMRs may expect chart abstraction to take less time.

For chart abstraction purposes, what are the patient age and type of operation parameters?

Patients must be 18 or older. Depending on the SCIP module, procedures may include any major surgical procedure, defined as those conducted under general, regional or spinal anesthesia.

Where can I get the tool that will be used to submit SCIP data?

You have three options:

  1. The SCIP CART tool is scheduled to be available for downloading in January 2006.
  2. JCAHO's SCIP tool will be available through its approved vendors JCAHO vendors will train providers on using the tool.
  3. ACS NSQIP is aligning with SCIP and will provide this data collection for its members.
When will data collection begin?

Data collection and submission are scheduled to begin in January 2006.

Where will the data go?

All SCIP data will be submitted to QualityNet Exchange, a centralized secured data warehouse.

Will our information be published and/or be used for pay-for-performance purposes?

CMS is always reviewing opportunities to give consumers more information about the quality of healthcare services, as well as aligning its quality agenda with payment policy. Eventually these measures may be used for more than internal quality improvement. Those decisions will be made through informed discussions with provider and consumer stakeholders.

How does SCIP align with other quality initiatives that hospitals may be participating in?

A crosswalk has been developed that shows the alignment of SCIP with other quality initiatives. Click on the following link to view the 'Alignment With

Other Initiatives.'

Alignment With Other Initiatives
What if my hospital isn't part of the SCIP IPG?

Hospitals that are not part of the SCIP IPG that conduct major surgical procedures can participate in SCIP. IPRO will offer educational materials online and links to information to help with quality improvement efforts, implementation and data collection.