The Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services Final Rule on Long-Term Care Requirements for Participation will begin its Phase 1 implementation on Monday, November 28th.
While the volume of the Phase 1 requirements seems daunting, the vast majority of this phase involves clarification of written policies and procedures and inclusion of new definitions. We would also mention that surveyor guidance has not yet been published, so there is still some uncertainty how the requirements will be interpreted..
At this point in time, LeadingAge California would suggest the following items for communities to consider:.
• Go through your own Policy/Procedure Manuals, section by section, to compare with each of the sections in the new rule and ensure that your language is in alignment..
• There are also identified areas of staff training that must be done and documented, much of which you have likely already been doing..
• Make sure you incorporate the new definitions, that you include new areas of resident rights, and that you have the necessary training in abuse, neglect and exploitation; dementia care, and feeding assistance, as outlined by the rule..
If you would like to view the LeadingAge Phase 1 Implementation Summary that was published a few weeks ago, please click here..