Arbor Research will engage with stakeholders across the health care system to identify, develop, and pilot web-based competency training for health care professionals in best practices for quality and safety.

November 6, 2023 – Ann Arbor, MI –

Arbor Research Collaborative for Health is excited to be collaborating with Reveal Global Consulting in the initiation of The Rapid Competency and Quality Improvement Training Innovation, a groundbreaking project aimed at transforming competency training in health care. The project, funded by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), is designed to revolutionize health care professionals’ competency training in best practices, emphasize efficient learning, and focus on improved quality and safety in health care facilities.

In the wake of the COVID-19 public health emergency, the health care industry is grappling with severe staff shortages which has forced the hiring of contract workers who require rapid onboarding and specialized training to ensure safe, competent care delivery. CMS and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have highlighted the pressing need for rapid skill development and competency for newly hired staff (nurses and other health professionals). Additionally, recent studies have demonstrated an increase in central line-associated bloodstream infections, highlighting the need for improved quality and safety in health care facilities.

“Our team at Arbor Research is committed to addressing the challenges faced by the healthcare industry and to improving patient safety and the overall quality of care,” says Arbor Research project leader Nathan West, MPA. “We have the necessary experience and background to provide successful guidance, and The Rapid Competency and Quality Improvement (QI) Training Innovation Project is in alignment with our mission to improve health outcomes.”

Arbor Research will support Reveal in clinical and QI content to develop innovative solutions in an online web-based platform that offers rapid competency skills-based training modules and related QI resources. Training modules will be piloted in multiple provider settings of care such as nursing homes and clinician practices, and focus on critical areas, including infection control, patient safety, behavioral health, quality assurance, and performance improvement.

Additional collaboration with CMS federal partners, stakeholders, health care professionals and subject matter experts will ensure specific industry needs are being addressed. The final report of the project will provide valuable insights, recommendations, and guidelines for best practices to strengthen rapid competency and quality improvement in health care nationwide.

“This project represents a crucial step in revolutionizing how healthcare professionals receive training, focusing on efficiency, competency, and quality improvement. We’re excited to collaborate with CMS and Reveal to make this a reality,” says Arbor Research President and CEO Chris Spera, PhD.