A Sneak Peek into October 1, 2023 MDS Changes

On September 1, 2022 CMS released an early look into significant changes that will impact the MDS 3.0 Item Set on October 1, 2023. Skilled Nursing Facilities will need to be aware of these upcoming changes and should consider updating workflows, data collection and staff training needs prior to the implementation of these changes in 2023. Our experts at Engage Consulting have summarized process updates that providers should consider for a successful transition to these pending changes.

HOW PROVIDERS SHOULD PREPARE

• Ensure adequate training to the MDS and Facility Leadership Team

• RUG-based Case Mix States will be required to change with the elimination of Section G. Many states will likely change to PDPM methodologies.

• MDS 3.0 Quality Measure changes will occur in 2023 as multiple QM items require input from section G of the MDS.

• ADL tracking for Nursing Assistants and Nurses will need to change to support GG and the elimination of Section G

While we have an advanced look at the Draft MDS 3.0 Item Set V1.18.11, we are still waiting on the release of the Draft Version of the MDS 3.0 RAI Manual which CMS has indicated will be released likely in Quarter 2, 2023 for review. You can access the Draft MDS 3.0 Form HERE.

A CLOSER LOOK AT CHANGES FROM CMS

These updates to the MDS align with CMS Quality Initiatives including the addition of Standardized Patient Data Elements (SPADEs), the addition of questions to support the SNF QRP Measure, Transfer of Health Information, and the elimination of certain sections and questions of the MDS, like section G. Below we highlighted the changes for reference.

Expansions to Demographics and Section A:

• Added response options for Ethnicity

• Added response options for Race (17 options)

• Added response options for identifying the location entered from and discharged to

Transportation **New Item Added**

Transfer of Health Information **New Item Added*

Health Literacy **New Item Added**

PHQ9 Interview Instructions Changing:

Social Isolation **New Item Added**

Section GG Expanded to Support Removal of G:

Pain Interview Expanded:

Section K Nutritional Approaches Expanded to Include On Admission/At Discharge:

Section N – High-Risk Drug Classes **New Item Added**

(to support removal of number of days each medication type was received)

Special Treatments and Procedures Expanded to Include On Admission/At Discharge and additional response options:

Section O- Physician Visits and Orders removed

Section Q- Expansions and Changes to Response Options

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If you would like to learn more about specialized consulting services, you can contact Jennifer Napier, Director of Clinical Consulting at Jennifern@engageconsultingpartners.com.