Reducing training time from one year to two months

The rigour and complexity of HMIRC 's evaluation process have traditionally required new screening officers and evaluators to undergo a full year of orientation before handling claims independently. By revamping its approach to staffing and training, the Commission significantly accelerated the time between a staff member's hiring and their functioning as an independent evaluator without reducing quality standards.

Among its efforts, the Commission reviewed the educational qualifications required for screening and evaluation positions, and began tapping into existing talent banks within the federal Health portfolio to identify qualified evaluators and accelerate recruitment.

Building a stronger workforce

HMIRC intensified its focus on staff development, introducing a more concentrated orientation program, individual on-the-job coaching, and a suite of tools for screening officers and evaluators including a user's guide and a template for producing advice documents that summarize the results of claims evaluations.