Prepare for CMS MDS Updates on October 1st, 2024

On October 1st, 2024, the latest Minimum Data Set (MDS) Assessment updates from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) will take effect. While the October 2023 changes were more significant—like the transition from Section G to GG—the upcoming MDS 1.19.1 updates, released in mid-January 2024, focus on essential yet subtle adjustments. Here's how to ensure your post-acute care facility stays compliant.

Key MDS 1.19.1 Updates

Although CMS labels these changes as minor, accuracy in MDS assessments remains critical for maximizing reimbursement and avoiding citations. The new changes impact three areas:

• Section GG: Self-care and Mobility – The discharge goal column will be removed for the 5-day Medicare MDS.
• Section O: Immunizations – Updates now include information on residents' COVID-19 vaccination status.
• Section N: High-Risk Medications – New data collection for anticonvulsant medication usage.

How Your Facility Can Prepare for the MDS Changes

Don't wait until the last minute—ensure your facility is ready to meet CMS compliance standards. Here's how SMK Medical can help:

1. Comprehensive Staff Training

Many facilities are still adapting to last year's major changes. SMK Medical offers MDS Essentials training courses that provide detailed breakdowns of the coding updates and documentation requirements. In addition, CMS provides a valuable four-part course to further support your team’s readiness.

2. Conduct an MDS Audit

An MDS audit is crucial to identify potential gaps in your current processes. By evaluating your team's understanding and implementation of MDS, we can ensure your facility is fully prepared for the October updates.

3. Outsourced MDS Coordinators

Struggling with staff shortages or retention? SMK Medical provides outsourced MDS Coordinators who can increase assessment accuracy, stabilize clinical leadership, and keep your team on top of compliance.

What’s Next for Post-Acute Care?

Several key measures will start data collection on October 1st, 2024, impacting future payments. Facilities should be aware of the following:

• Falls with Major Injury – Affects long-stay residents, with payment adjustments beginning in October 2026.
• Discharge Function Score – Uses Section GG items and will influence payments starting in October 2026.
• Hospitalizations per 1,000 Long-Stay Resident Days – Data collection begins this year, with payment impacts in 2026.
• SNF With-Stay Potentially Preventable Readmission Measure – Will replace the current SNFRM in 2028 with payment modifications.

Stay Ahead with SMK Medical

Navigating CMS updates can be complex, but SMK Medical is here to help. As a trusted post-acute care consulting firm, we offer comprehensive solutions including training, audits, and staffing to ensure your facility remains compliant with the latest MDS changes.

Maximize compliance and reimbursement potential with SMK Medical. Contact us today to learn how our team can support your post-acute care facility as you prepare for the MDS 1.19.1 updates. With SMK Medical, you’ll stay ahead of the curve.