Forum of ESRD Networks releases report about CROWNWeb implementation

Forum of ESRD Networks releases report about CROWNWeb implementation
3/2/2011

The Forum of ESRD Networks posted its final report today on the progress of the CROWNWeb data collection system for dialysis facilities. The conclusions in the report were a deciding factor in the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services decision announced on Feb. 23 to delay full implementation of CROWNWeb and instead expand Phase 2 of the project.

In its report, the Forum suggests CMS undertake a 'high-level assessment' with key stakeholders, including Networks, before the data collection system is finalized. Specific recommendations, include:

CMS should authorize, fund, and test for inclusion in national implementation of CROWNWeb a set of report requirements previously submitted by the Requirements, Communication, and Training (RCT) team to CMS senior management in March 2010.
While maintaining Federal security standards, the national implementation of CROWNWeb should provide authorized ESRD Network users with a) tools that enable flexible ad hoc querying and reporting; b) access to current and historic data; c) continued access to national ESRD data.
ESRD Network staff and Phase II facility participants should be included in QIMS development and testing.
CMS should take account of the work required to maintain CROWNWeb user account and CROWNWeb training.
CMS should convene a national ESRD data standards group comprising representatives of CMS, of ESRD Networks, of the USRDS and the Dialysis Facility Report contractor, as well as of large, medium and small dialysis organizations.This group should be charged with addressing data integrity issues.

The full report is available on the forum's website.

http://www.nephronline.com/features.asp?F_ID=630