| The Minimum Data Set (MDS) is a powerful tool for | | | | How facilities put into practice the MDS 3.0 will have |
| putting into practice standardized assessment and to | | | | an impact on critical aspects of nursing home |
| facilitate care management in nursing homes. The | | | | operations, but most facilities are at a critical juncture |
| transition from MDS 2.0 to MDS 3.0 is currently slated | | | | and are unsure of how to approach training. Some |
| for implementation in October 2010. Earlier, the | | | | facilities have put off training until it gets nearer to |
| Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) | | | | the October 2010 deadline. |
| had set the implementation date for October 2009. | | | | It’ not a good idea to hold off training because it |
| This delay stems from concerns that the original date | | | | will require time to train all your facility staff |
| did not provide enough time for software vendors, | | | | members. The change will require comprehensive |
| agencies, and others to get ready for the changes | | | | training for MDS coordinators and other staff |
| that MDS 3.0 will bring. | | | | members who have direct MDS responsibility. |
| Changes to important operational and clinical | | | | Moreover, these changes will also impact billing, |
| processes will pave the way for the successful MDS | | | | medical records, payment, and others so it makes |
| 3.0 implementation and improvement to the quality of | | | | sense to start your preparations as early as possible. |
| life of its residents. This will mean increased resident | | | | With proper focus, both providers and their software |
| input, more accuracy and reliability, increased | | | | vendors will be ready for the upcoming MDS 3.0 |
| efficiency, improved staff satisfaction, together with | | | | changes. |
| a host of other benefits. | | | | |