October Changes for MDS

CMS announced the new version (v1.14.1) of the MDS 3.0 is scheduled to become effective October 1, 2016.
A new section GG has been added to the MDS. These item sets are required for Medicare Part A residents at admission and discharge to establish and assess functional abilities and goals.
LTCS Books publications are now all current with the MDS v1.14.1 and with all of the latest RAI Manual updates, Surveyor Guidelines, and federal regulatory changes.
Coding Instuctions for Sections GG Functional Abilities and Goals

Increasing Reimbursement in Long Term Care

There are many ways the MDS coordinator can increase the reimbursement level of the facility. While quality of care is the top priority, working to get the top level of payment that is justifiably due for services is of the utmost importance. Increased funds produce more resources for care. http://ltcsbooks.com/increasing-reimbursement-in-long-term-care

2016 MDS OBRA Assessment Scheduling Calendar

The 2016 MDS OBRA Assessment Scheduling Calendar is ready. Receive this valuable tool Free with your book purchase. 

Visit http://ltcsbooks.com/

Staffing Data Submission

Long term care facilities will be required to electronically submit staffing information based on payroll to CMS beginning July 1, 2016. CMS will use the data to monitor staffing levels and employee turnover and tenure, which can impact the quality of care delivered. 

Facility staffing information will be posted on the CMS Nursing Home Compare website used in the Nursing Home Five Star Quality Rating System. 

CMS Staffing Data Submission Source Documents and Training Materials

Home Health Compare to Get Star Rating

A new star rating will be added to the Home Health Compare site, CMS announced.

The new rating measure will be a summary of some of the current provider performance measures the site already offers.

CMS shared its plans for the Home Health Compare Star Ratings at Open Door Forums in December 2014 and February 2015, and asked for comments and suggestions from stakeholders.

Recordings and transcripts from stakeholder calls can be accessed on the CMS Special Open Door Forums page.