If you work in a skilled nursing facility (SNF) in Pennsylvania, you already know how stressful surveys can be. One day, everything seems to be running smoothly, and the next, you’re navigating a citation that could have serious consequences for your team and your residents. It’s a tough spot to be in, but there is a way forward.
That’s where Directed In-services come into play — and they’re more than just a checkbox on your Plan of Correction.
What Are Directed In-services?
In simple terms, Directed In-services are specific, focused trainings that the Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH) can require after a survey citation. They’re not your usual inservice. These are targeted, structured sessions — often led by an outside expert — that address exactly what went wrong and how to fix it.
It’s not about blame. It’s about getting better — quickly, clearly, and with a plan.
Why Directed In-services Matter for SNFs
If your organization has received a serious deficiency — or one that keeps popping up — the state may require a Directed In-service to make sure staff really understand what needs to change. But even if they’re not required, offering them proactively can show the state you take quality seriously.
Here’s why Directed In-services are so important:
- They help you bounce back after a tough survey. You get to show regulators (and your team) that you’re taking the issue seriously and making changes right away.
- They clear up confusion. Sometimes, staff just don’t know exactly what’s expected or why certain steps matter. These trainings get everyone on the same page.
- They reduce repeat citations. Fix it once, fix it right, and move on.
- They build confidence. When staff understand the “why” behind the rules, they’re more likely to follow them — and feel good about the care they’re providing.
How LW Consulting, Inc. Can Help
This is where LW Consulting, Inc. (LWCI) steps in. We know this territory — the survey stress, the fast timelines, the scramble to find the right resources. Our team includes nurses, and compliance experts who understand what your organization is going through and how to move through it.
When we deliver Directed In-services, we focus on three things:
Making it Relevant
We tailor every session to your specific citation and facility needs. No cookie-cutter content — just exactly what your team needs to hear, in a way that makes sense to them.
Making it Engaging
We’ve all sat through dull trainings. That’s not our style. We make sessions interactive, practical, and tied to real-life situations your staff deal with every day.
Making it Count
You’ll get everything you need for your Plan of Correction, including follow-up recommendations. We make sure it’s done right — and stands up to scrutiny.
Bonus: We don’t just disappear after the training. If you need extra support — mock surveys, documentation reviews, policy updates — we’re here to help.
Final Thought: Don’t Wait for the State
Directed In-services aren’t just about fixing mistakes — they’re a powerful way to build a stronger, safer facility. Whether you’ve just received a deficiency or you’re trying to stay ahead of the next one, the right training can make all the difference.
Need help figuring out your next move? Reach out to noliver@lw-consult.com at LWCI. We’re here to help you turn challenges into momentum.
