The College of Medicine recently concluded a mock accreditation site visit in preparation for the actual LCME accreditation site visit scheduled to take place March 24-27. Three highly experienced evaluators from other medical schools met with our faculty, staff and students; reviewed our documentation; and provided helpful feedback on the expectations of the LCME regarding compliance with standards.
Special thanks to our College staff ― Robert Eaglen, Ph.D., associate dean for quality initiatives; Allison Hawkes, M.D. (’83), director for accreditation; and Jennifer Lint, assistant director for academic operations ― for effectively organizing and leading all of our efforts. We also extend our thanks to all participants for taking time from their busy schedules to help us in this important trial run.
The surveyors ended the practice visit with a detailed debriefing where they shared perceptions of the areas in which we are performing well and those in need of improvement. They also suggested strategies that we can consider as we work to meet all accreditation requirements. The discussion provided the College leadership with a clearer understanding of the institution’s strengths and weaknesses, and of ways in which we can present ourselves proudly, professionally and positively when the official LCME site visit takes place.
Over the next few weeks, we will be following up with faculty, staff and students who participated in the mock visit to review their experiences and ensure that we are fully prepared to put our best foot forward for the official LCME site visit in March.
–Submitted by Terri Christensen