Proposed Rule FY2025 Top 10 Things You Need to Know About the Proposed Updates to Skilled Nursing Facilities

Proposed Rule FY2025

Top 10 Things You Need to Know About the Proposed Updates to Skilled Nursing Facilities

As the landscape of healthcare continues to evolve, it's essential to stay informed about changes that may impact skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) and the care they provide. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) recently released a proposed rule, CMS-1802-P, outlining updates for SNFs in fiscal year 2025.

Here are the top 10 things you need to know about these proposed changes:

1. New Assessment Items: CMS proposes the addition of four new assessment items in the Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) category. These items focus on Living Situation, Food (with two new items), and Utilities, to provide a comprehensive view of patients' social and environmental factors.

2. Minimum Data Set (MDS): The new assessment items will be collected and submitted through the Minimum Data Set (MDS), a standardized tool used to assess the health status of SNF residents.

3. Transportation Item Modification: CMS suggests modifying the current Transportation item to better capture relevant information related to patient mobility and access to transportation services.

4. Alignment with Value-Based Purchasing Program: In line with the SNF Value-Based Purchasing Program (VBP), CMS proposes implementing a similar validation process for the SNF Quality Reporting Program (QRP) to ensure data accuracy and integrity.

5. Request for Information (RFI): CMS is seeking feedback through a Request for Information (RFI) on quality measure concepts considered for future SNF QRP years. This provides an opportunity for stakeholders to contribute input and shape future policies.

6. Federal Register Display: The proposed rule is now available for review on the Federal Register website. Stakeholders are encouraged to review the details of the proposed changes and submit comments during the open comment period. Link is here:  https://www.federalregister.gov/public-inspection

7. Impact on SNF Operations: These proposed updates may require adjustments to SNF operations, data collection processes, and staff training to ensure compliance with new assessment requirements.

8. Quality Reporting Requirements: SNFs will need to familiarize themselves with the new assessment items and reporting requirements to accurately capture and submit data for the SNF QRP.

9.  

   Potential Benefits: The proposed updates aim to enhance the collection of data on social determinants of health, leading to more comprehensive assessments and personalized care plans for SNF residents.

10. Stay Informed: It's crucial for SNF administrators, clinicians, and staff to stay informed about regulatory changes and participate in the comment process to provide feedback on the proposed rule.

As SNFs navigate the evolving healthcare landscape, understanding and adapting to proposed updates are essential to ensure high-quality care delivery and compliance with regulatory requirements. By staying informed, actively participating in the feedback process, and preparing for potential changes, SNFs can continue to provide excellent care for their residents while meeting regulatory standards.

Sincerely,

Kris 



Kris B. Harmony OTR/L, LNHA, MBA
​President and CEO
KrisBHarmony, LLC