When implementing the Resident-Centered Interdisciplinary Plan (RCIP) model, choosing the right community to join or build is one of the most important decisions you can make. Whether you’re a healthcare provider, administrator, or part of a care team, the right RCIP community can support your goals, amplify your impact, and improve outcomes for the residents you serve.

But how do you determine which RCIP community is right for you?

Here’s a strategic guide to help you evaluate your options and choose a community that aligns with your values, mission, and operational needs.

1. Define Your Goals and Priorities

Before evaluating specific RCIP communities, take a moment to clarify your internal goals:

• Are you seeking peer learning and collaboration?
• Do you want to pilot new practices before rolling them out system-wide?
• Is your focus on compliance, innovation, or both?
• Are you looking to improve staff engagement or resident satisfaction?

Knowing your “why” will help you identify a community that complements your goals and pushes you in the right direction.

2. Evaluate Community Values and Culture

RCIP success hinges on shared values, especially around resident-centered care. Ask yourself:

• Does the community emphasize dignity, autonomy, and interdisciplinary collaboration?
• Is the culture one of trust, continuous learning, and transparency?
• Do you feel inspired by the community’s mission?

You want to be part of a group that aligns with your values and challenges you to grow.

3. Assess the Level of Support and Resources

Not all RCIP communities are created equal. Look for:

• Structured onboarding processes and coaching
• Access to tools, templates, and best practices
• Ongoing training and professional development
• Support for troubleshooting and problem-solving

The right community will provide guidance and flexibility, so you don’t have to start from scratch.

4. Consider the Community’s Track Record

Experience matters. Take time to research:

• Success stories and case studies
• Measurable outcomes (e.g., resident satisfaction, quality of care, staff retention)
• Testimonials from other members
• Alignment with your care setting (e.g., SNFs, ALFs, or continuum-based models)

Communities with proven impact will give you confidence—and a head start.

5. Look at Diversity and Inclusion

A strong RCIP community should reflect the diversity of the residents and teams it serves:

• Does the community elevate voices across different roles—CNAs, nurses, therapists, administrators, and family caregivers?
• Are equity and cultural competence embedded in the community’s practices?

Inclusive communities foster better problem-solving and innovation.

6. Think Long-Term

Joining an RCIP community is a commitment. You’ll want a community that can evolve with you:

• Is there a roadmap for long-term participation and leadership development?
• Are there opportunities for you to contribute what you learn?
• How will you measure success after year one? Year three?

Choose a community that supports both quick wins and sustainable transformation.

7. Talk to Members

There’s no substitute for a conversation. Reach out to people already participating:

• What drew them to the community?
• What has been the most significant benefit and challenge?
• Would they recommend the community to someone in your position?

Their lived experience can offer insights you won’t find in brochures or webinars.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right RCIP community is about more than logistics—it’s about finding your people. The right community will not only share your vision but also help you bring it to life.

At Change of Phase Consulting Group, we believe that transformational change is possible when resident-centered practices are grounded in meaningful collaboration. If you’re ready to explore or expand your role in an RCIP community, we’re here to help guide the way.

Need help evaluating RCIP communities or preparing your team for participation?

Contact us at info@copcg.com or call 1-866-960-9296 to schedule a free consultation with our team.