The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) discussed the revised interpretive guidance for nursing homes and the new survey process (both effective Nov. 28, 2017) in a national provider call July 25. The presentation slides are available on-line, and an audio recording and transcript will be posted within approximately two weeks.

CMS shared information about the major components of Phase 2 implementation, changes to the survey process, and resources that will be available to providers:

· An advance copy of revised Appendix PP is available on the CMS website, which includes both new guidance relating to Phase 2 requirements, as well as revisions to guidance affecting existing requirements. This revised guidance will become effective November 28, 2017.

· In addition to the July 25 provider call presentation, CMS has posted a series of videos outlining essential topics related to changes in the LTC regulations scheduled to be implemented for Phase 2. These LTC Survey Process SME Videos provide a resource that can be used for training and education by surveyors, providers, and other stakeholder groups. The topics include: Admission, Transfer, and Discharge; Appendix PP – Overview of Revised Interpretive Guidance; Behavioral Health; Facility Assessment; Freedom from Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation; Infection Control; Person-Centered Care; Quality Assurance and Process Improvement Plan – The Basics; Quality of Life and Quality of Care; and Nursing Services.

· All F-tags will be renumbered effective this November, and CMS has prepared a F-Tag Crosswalk [XLSX, 28KB] between the current and new numbering systems.

In the coming weeks, CMS will make additional tools available relating to the new survey process, including mandatory tasks surveyors must perform, an updated facility matrix, and updated critical element pathway forms.

CMS also shared that it is working with the Quality Improvement Organizations to develop a Facility Assessment tool and template that it will make available in early September.

We will continue to work with our LeadingAge team to summarize significant elements of the new interpretive guidelines.