MDS and CAT Changes Coming in October, 2018

CMS posted data specifications for the new MDS 3.0 V2.02.0 version. There are significant changes to Section GG, I, J and M.

Also, a new MDS 3.0 CAT V1.03.0 version was posted for CAT 16, Pressure Ulcer.

These changes are scheduled to become effective October 1, 2018.

MDS and CAT Data Specifications for October, 2018https://ltcsbooks.com/mds-and-cat-changes-coming-in-october-2018

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Proposed Revisions to PPS and MDS

Case mix methodology will be changed and the MDS form streamlined next year, according to proposed changes recently announced by CMS.
RUGs would be replaced with the Resident Classification System, RCS-1 which would adjust for therapies, nursing services, and non-therapy ancillaries for a more resident centered allocation of resources.
Therapies would be assessed by resident characteristics rather than therapy time.
All PPS assessments would be eliminated except for the 5 Day and Significant Change of Status MDS.
Full Description of Regulatory Changes – Federal Register

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 

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

Nursing Assistant Shortage Reaches Critical Level

As the demand for caregivers in long term care increases, fewer people are drawn to caregiver positions. The ratio of twenty residents to one CNA is now common, preventing any possibility of adequate care, job satisfaction, or staff retention.

“More than 1.3 million new paid caregivers will be needed to meet demand over the next decade,” according to a recent New York Times article.

The article also cites low wages and Medicare / Medicaid funding deficits as factors contributing to the problem. 

A Shortage of Caregivers, New York Times Article