CMS posted the following S&C Memos: the first memo 18-04 combines the Phase 2 F-tag moratorium and Five Star Freeze.

Highlights: the Phase 2 F-tag moratorium is now 18 months from the previously communicated 12 months. The specific F-Tags are listed however, F608 is not extended to this moratorium (reporting reasonable suspicion of a crime due to the concerns about significant resident abuse going unreported).

 

In the Five Star freeze, surveys started before November 28th as well as a request for IDR and/or independent IDR will be calculated in a facility’s five star rating – including a revisit.

 

Please review the overview document on S&C Memo 18-04 as well as the CMS S&C Memo for full summary.

 

The second memo 18-05 states Appendix P will no longer be accessible. The LTCSP procedure guide will replace Appendix P.

 

S&C 18-04-NH

Temporary Enforcement Delays for Certain Phase 2 F-Tags and Changes to Nursing Home Compare

 

https://www.cms.gov/Medicare/Provider-Enrollment-and-Certification/SurveyCertificationGenInfo/Policy-and-Memos-to-States-and-Regions-Items/Survey-and-Cert-Letter-18-04.html?DLPage=1&DLEntries=10&DLSort=2&DLSortDir=descending

 

Overview of S&C 18-04-NH(see attachment)

 

S&C 18-05-NH

Preparation for Launch of New Long-Term Care Survey Process (LTCSP)

 

 

https://www.cms.gov/Medicare/Provider-Enrollment-and-Certification/SurveyCertificationGenInfo/Policy-and-Memos-to-States-and-Regions-Items/Survey-and-Cert-Letter-18-05.html?DLPage=1&DLEntries=10&DLSort=2&DLSortDir=descending