The report requirements outlined below correspond to the scoring guide criteria,

The report requirements outlined below correspond to the scoring guide criteria, so be sure to address each main point: Describe how the selected policy complies with or diverges from the requirements outlined in the healthcare law. Identify benchmarks associated with a healthcare law, policy, or guideline. For additional information on benchmarks, you may go to the AHRQ website and explore their Data Tools. Use the AHA and NHQDR Navigation Instructions [PDF] Download AHA and NHQDR Navigation Instructions [PDF]for step-by-step instructions. Evaluate dashboard metrics associated with benchmarks set forth by local, state, or federal healthcare laws or policies. Identify a benchmark underperformance. Analyze the consequences of not meeting prescribed benchmarks and the impact this has on healthcare organizations or teams. Discuss the potential legal, ethical, or financial implications of non-compliance with the policy and its alignment with healthcare law or professional guidelines. Consider the consequences for individual practitioners, stakeholders, and the healthcare organization. Advocate for ethical and sustainable actions, directed toward an appropriate group of stakeholders, needed to address a benchmark underperformance. Organize content so ideas flow logically with smooth transitions. Proofread your report, before you submit it, to minimize errors that could distract readers and make it more difficult for them to focus on the substance of your evaluation and analysis. Part 1: Policy Analysis Topic Selection: Using your Assessment 1: Dashboard Metrics, Benchmarks, and Policy Decisions reading list, go to the American Hospital Association’s (AHA) Advocacy Issues webpage and select a topic that interests you or you are working on in your organization. Review the AHA position and Key Resources for the issue you have chosen. Facility Selection: Then, visit the AHA’s Fast Facts on U.S. Hospitals webpage (available in the Assessment 1: Dashboard Metrics, Benchmarks, and Policy Decisions reading list). There, go to the “Map of Community Hospitals in the United States” and select a hospital in your state or area and choose a community facility, reviewing the organization demographics and services. Policy Selection: Choose a policy within a healthcare organization in your community that directly impacts your professional practice or work environment. This could include policies related to patient safety, outcomes, infection control, medication administration, core measures, or reimbursement. Policy Review: Obtain a copy of the chosen policy and thoroughly review its content, objectives, and implementation guidelines. Comparison to Healthcare Law or Guidelines: Research and identify a relevant healthcare law (federal or state) or professional guideline that aligns with the objectives of the chosen policy. Analyze how the policy complies with or diverges from the requirements outlined in the healthcare law. Legal Implications: Discuss the potential legal, ethical, or financial implications of non-compliance with the policy and its alignment with healthcare law or professional guidelines. Consider the consequences for individual practitioners, stakeholders, and the healthcare organization. Part 2: Benchmark Analysis Benchmark Identification: Research and identify industry-standard benchmarks related to the organization by the chosen policy. These benchmarks could include national quality indicators, best practices recommended by professional organizations, or performance metrics set by regulatory agencies. Policy Alignment With Benchmarks: Evaluate how the policy aligns with the identified benchmarks. Discuss areas of convergence where the policy supports benchmark achievement and any gaps or discrepancies that may hinder compliance with industry standards. Quality Improvement Implications: Analyze the policy’s implications in healthcare quality improvement efforts. Consider how adherence to benchmarks can drive positive outcomes in patient care, safety, and overall organizational performance. Examples of Laws/Regulations/Standards In your Assessment 1: Dashboard Metrics, Benchmarks, and Policy Decisions reading list, read the “5 Regulations That Impact Healthcare Practices” article. These regulations are: Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health (HITECH) Act. Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA). Anti-Kickback Statute (AKS). Stark Law. Additional examples of laws, regulations, and standards: Nursing Practice Act. State telehealth laws. Medicare/Medicaid federal regulations. American College of Healthcare Executives. The Healthcare Financial Management Association. National Association of Social Workers. International Federation of Social Workers. American Public Health Association. National Association of County and City Health Officials. PSQIA The Patient Safety and Quality Improvement Act of 2005 (PSQIA) protects healthcare workers who report unsafe conditions at their practices. The law encourages individuals to report medical errors while maintaining patient confidentiality. Fraud and Abuse Laws Healthcare providers are subject to various federal and state laws prohibiting fraud and abuse. Healthcare providers cannot issue fraudulent bills to private insurance companies or government insurance providers such as Medicare. They also may not prescribe or recommend unnecessary procedures or medications to generate more funds or to get a kickback from a distributor, they may not conduct money laundering, and they may not otherwise engage in acts of fraud or abuse. Note: Ensure your data are Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) compliant. Do not use any easily identifiable organization or patient information.