Page 321 - QAP Manual 2020

Proxy Determination

The following two questions (D-1 and D-2) will be used to determine whether to conduct Section I with the person (no proxy responses
permitted for Section I) or if Section I will not be conducted and only Section II will be completed with a proxy respondent. A proxy respondent is
a person who knows the person well and had frequent contact with them. Please read questions as written and carefully code/record what the
person says. Rephrase only if needed.

The person must be able to answer both questions reliably in order to take part in Section I of the survey. Surveyors will use
“reliable/unreliable” guidance to make this determination.

Answering reliably means that the person’s response reflects an understanding of the question. Each question includes examples of reliable
responses. However, this will ultimately be at the surveyor’s discretion to decide whether the person answers in a reliable manner.
• Non-verbal communication does not mean a person cannot participate in Section I. Responses may be considered reliable even if the
person needs help with communication, rephrasing, or follow-up.
• Interpreters are not considered proxy respondents (although one person may service both roles). Interpreters should be used to
complete Section I whenever needed.
• It is best practice to include the person receiving services in the survey meeting even if you will only be conducting Section II with a
Proxy.

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