April 15, 2025
Understanding Minimum Data Set (MDS) Validation
The Minimum Data Set (MDS) is a federally mandated assessment used in Medicare or Medicaid-certified nursing homes to evaluate a resident’s functional abilities and healthcare needs. The MDS incorporates standardized elements, coding categories, and vital health indicators. Validating the MDS is an essential step for skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) that is sometimes bypassed. The validation process ensures the accuracy of the data submitted to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). The MDS coordinator,