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,…

Understanding the Benefits of Performing a Mock Survey

Whether your organization relies on an in-house team or enlists the help of an outside consultant, conducting a mock survey is an essential strategy to assess your organization’s current performance against the standards set by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), improving your chances of securing a higher star rating. In 2025, healthcare providers are still navigating the long-term impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, alongside new challenges like workforce instability, ongoing staffing shortages,…

Navigating the Latest CMS Surveyor Guidance Updates: What SNFs Need to Know

Staying informed about regulatory changes is crucial for compliance and high-quality care in skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) and long-term care nursing homes. On March 10, 2025, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released the updated Long-Term Care (LTC) Surveyor Guidance, QSO-25-14-NH. This new guidance will take effect on April 28, 2025, introducing new expectations, revised F-tags, and significant changes in admissions, staffing, psychotropic medication use, and infection control. These changes may be challenging,…