Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) revealed plans for significant 2024 updates in a recent Open Door Forum. The focus revolves around revisions to the Minimum Data Set (MDS) and pivotal changes in nursing home survey processes.
What's Changing in MDS for 2024?
CMS is gearing up to launch MDS 1.19.1 in early 2024, taking effect from October 1. Although these revisions are minor, three crucial changes are in the pipeline:
Anticonvulsants Inclusion: Anticonvulsants will be added to the high-risk drug class in Section N. These medications come with specific benefits and risks, a significant aspect currently not reflected in the MDS.
Section GG Modifications: Expect the removal of the self-care and mobility discharge goal columns (GG-0130 and GG-0170, column two) in the upcoming changes to Section GG.
COVID Vaccination Status: A new item will be added to collect COVID-19 vaccination status among residents. This data will influence the measure of the "COVID-19 vaccine percent of patient residents who are up-to-date" for the SNF Quality Reporting Program (QRP).
Engaging Stakeholders for Feedback
Heidi Magladry emphasized CMS's commitment to engaging stakeholders for feedback, acknowledging diverse perspectives' invaluable contribution in enhancing coding accuracy and language clarity.
Navigating Technical Transitions
CMS health insurance specialist Ellen Berry highlighted the shift from the Internet Quality Improvement & Evaluation System (iQIES) MDS user interface to jRAVEN software. Providers needing assessments beyond federal and state mandates were advised to use vendor software instead of submitting to IQIES.
Streamlining Nursing Home Surveys
CMS plans to test new survey processes targeting high-risk nursing homes. The objective is to expedite surveys by reallocating resources with a lower risk of resident harm, addressing the existing survey backlog.
Addressing Urgent Needs
Debra Lyons emphasized the urgency of conducting timely surveys at high-risk nursing homes due to the backlog induced by the pandemic and increased complaints. Changes in survey staffing and investigation procedures may be implemented to streamline the process.
Conclusion
The focus on improving the nursing home survey underscores CMS's ongoing commitment to quality care amidst resource constraints. Stay updated for further developments as CMS adapts strategies to meet the evolving needs of nursing home care and regulation.
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