The Development of Surveyor Competency for Thai Healthcare Accreditation Program

Abstract

     The study aimed to establish a competency model for surveyors in the Thai healthcare accreditation program. The researchers conducted this study using mixed research methods. The specifically selected sampling groups were 12 experts who possess tacit knowledge, skills, and experiences in healthcare accreditation. The research methods included in-depth interviews and an observation of an actual survey, and the data were analyzed using a content analysis approach prior to concluding surveyor competencies and behavioral definitions, followed by a draft of surveyor competency models, validated with the 12 experts and another 24 surveyors. The results found 26 competencies for surveyors: 1) seven core competencies: beliefs, philosophy and ethics, respect, professional development, interpersonal relationships, teamwork, and adaptability; 2) three management competencies: planning and organization, time management, and conflict management; and 3) 16 functional competencies of: knowledge of healthcare accreditation standards, professional standard knowledge, knowledge of other quality standards, healthcare service system knowledge, knowledge of the concept of quality and safety, analytical thinking skills, systems thinking skills, situation analysis skills, self-assessment report analysis, systems approach skills, communication skills, report writing skills, problem addressing skills, appreciative inquiry skills, coaching skills, and learning facilitation skills. This study investigated competency models development, which was derived by experts. Each competency was extracted from tacit knowledge of experts who possess a high level of survey experience in Thai societal contexts. Significantly, these competency models, particularly beliefs and respect concerning people with friendly and humble manners are also reflected in Thai identities. Additionally, this study also identified learning facilitation, and appreciative inquiry competency models, which positively empowered. Hence, the developed surveyor competency models in this study are sufficient to change or improve Thai healthcare accreditation. Surveyors in Thai societal contexts must be assertive as both evaluators and learning developers in order to bring about positive changes for Thai healthcare accreditation.