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Site Inspections

Comprehensive site inspections are an integral part of the ICE designation and renewal process. The purpose of this on-site review is to verify compliance with program requirements. All parties that are linked together to form a bariatric center – the surgeon, surgical practice and facility – participate in the site inspection. The site inspection process often motivates participants to critically evaluate their bariatric program and identify areas for improvement that go beyond the ICE requirements.

Site Inspectors

SRC’s site inspectors are nurses or surgeon colleagues – who have handled both the day-to-day details of a bariatric practice and supported bariatric surgeons in the operating room. Site inspectors are a resource for ICE program participants and can answer questions about the designation, site inspection and renewal process. All site inspectors adhere to confidentiality and professional conduct codes.

Preparation

The Bariatric Program Coordinator typically serves as the site inspector liaison with SRC and manages activities during the actual site inspection, which includes the following:

  • Full review of the facility and surgical practice, which is typically where pre- and postoperative care is provided
  • Interviews with surgeons, practice staff, and facility staff and leadership
  • Detailed review of patient charts
  • Review of BOLD data entry and compliance

Site inspections are scheduled and planned – they are not on-the-spot or surprise events. Site inspection preparation materials are provided well in advance, and all parties involved have plenty of time to prepare. Both the site inspector and SRC Support are available to assist with preparation – it is not necessary for centers to hire a consultant to help prepare for or conduct mock site inspections. Outside consultants do not work for SRC and may provide incorrect and/or outdated information.

Timing for Designation

SRC forwards site inspection preparation materials to the Bariatric Program Coordinator after receiving the center’s applications for ICE designation. A standard one-day site inspection invoice is sent to the facility. After the required forms and payment are received, SRC schedules the site inspection based on the center’s geographic location.

Timing for Renewal

To verify continued program compliance, ICE designees are formally evaluated by SRC approximately every three years as part of a renewal cycle. SRC initiates the designation renewal process by sending instructions and site inspection preparation materials to the center.

After the required forms are received, SRC schedules the renewal site inspection Regardless of when the site inspection occurs, the center’s designation remains in place until the renewal process is complete.

A site inspection fee is invoiced after the site inspection has been completed. This fee is based on the actual costs of the site inspection.