Training Name
Foundational Investigative Skills (FIS)
Activity Code
0CMSFIS_ONL
Training Description
The Foundational Investigative Skills (FIS) Basic Training is intended to develop surveyors’ investigative skills used on site during surveys. This training introduces investigative techniques for making observations, reviewing records, and conducting effective interviews. It also provides guidance on writing effective deficiency statements and defending those statements in court when necessary. The training will aid in the development of surveyor skills and proficiency.
Training Objectives: On completion of these lessons, you will be able to:
- Recognize the components of an effective investigation, including the relationships between evidence, facts, and conclusions.
- Explain the importance of detailed, well-documented observations.
- Identify the consequences of an inadequate investigation.
Training Duration: 16 hours
Completion Requirements: This self-paced training includes a mandatory pretest, five learning modules, a mandatory posttest, and a CMS-approved training evaluation. Both the posttest and the evaluation must be completed to generate a certificate of completion and earn training continuing education units (CEUs). To pass the FIS Basic Training, you must score a minimum of 80% on the training posttest.
Email for Questions: The training is available on demand online 24 hours a day,
7 days a week. For all technical issues and those requiring an urgent response, such as
accessing the training, email HelpDesk@QSEP.org; for all content-related questions, email QSOG_GeneralInquiries@cms.hhs.gov. All other comments and questions can be submitted during the training using the comment tool.