In support of the national implementation of the ICH CAHPS Survey, CMS conducted a Mode Experiment to determine whether patients respond differently to the survey based on different data collection modes (mail, telephone, or a mixed-mode approach). Mode Experiment data were used to support development of appropriate adjustments to control for mode effects during the national implementation of ICH CAHPS. Mode Experiment data were also used to determine whether ratings of in-center hemodialysis care vary by patient characteristics.

The ICH CAHPS Survey Mode Experiment showed significant differences in patients’ ratings and assessment of their hemodialysis care based on survey mode and in responses to the survey items that are attributable to patient-mix characteristics. CMS uses results of these analyses to apply statistical adjustments that are made on the facility-level scores for semiannual submission of publicly reported ICH CAHPS Survey data during national implementation.