Put on Your Project Manager Cap

Put on Your Project Manager Cap

Sep 6, 2018
  • Author:
    Vicki Searcy
    Title:
    Former VP, Consulting
    Company:
    VerityStream
    Vicki has managed several credentialing and privileging practices, led a national healthcare accreditation and compliance consulting practice, was a surveyor for the NCQA, and a former president of NAMSS.

Most credentialing and enrollment professionals don’t think of themselves as “project managers” – but it is undeniable that we are often in the position of managing several concurrent projects such as:

  1. 1. Development of systems for FPPE (focused professional practice evaluation)
  2. 2. Revision of clinical privileges
  3. 3. Bylaws revision
  4. 4. Working with medical staff leaders and administration to develop a medical staff leadership training program
  5. 5. Development of a new physician orientation program
  6. 6. Implementation of new technology

 

And the list could go on and on…. 

It is helpful for all professionals involved in project management (and that is nearly all of us) to develop project management skills not only for personal growth but also to positively affect the success of the projects.


Unfortunately, many of us get caught up in projects and inadvertently skip some important steps.  Critical first steps in a project include recognizing – and managing – the various phases of the project, including:

  1. 1. Initiation: Evaluating whether it’s feasible to pursue a project including costs and benefits.
  2. 2. Project Planning: Determining and obtaining agreement on project scope, goals and objectives.
  3. 3. Execution: Completing tasks required per the project plan.
  4. 4. Project Monitoring and Control: Monitoring the plan, reporting progress and making adjustments to the plan as necessary.
  5. 5. Phase-Out or Conclusion: Bringing the project to closure and identification of the next steps.

 

Take the time to seek out information on managing projects. There is a wealth of information ranging from online articles to books and videos. It’s something we can all use!