CMS is offering a virtual training program that provides instruction on the updated guidance for the SNF Minimum Data Set (MDS) 3.0 Resident Assessment Instrument (RAI) v1.18.11 Manual and Item Set.

• This guidance will affect reporting requirements associated with the SNF QRP that will go into effect on October 1, 2023.
• In June and July VHCA-VCAL is offering training workshops for MDS coordinators and a day-long program specific to the RAI Manual changes.

The CMS training is part of a comprehensive strategy to ensure SNF providers have access to the educational materials necessary to understand and comply with the guidance changes.

• A major focus of this training will be on the cross-setting implementation of the standardized patient assessment data elements to ensure more consistent reporting and evaluation across post-acute care settings.

The details: The CMS training program has two parts:

1. Part 1: LEARN  Part 1 consists of pre-recorded training webinars that deliver foundational knowledge to assist in learning the new and/or revised items and associated guidance. A supplemental Capstone Case Study is also available to give providers additional practice in coding the new and/or revised items. These videos are intended to be viewed in advance of the Part 2 live event and are available now on CMS YouTube.
2. Part 2: PRACTICE  Part 2 includes the live, virtual workshop sessions that provide practice coding scenarios on select data elements covered in the Part 1 training webinars. These live sessions will take place on June 21, 2023 between 12:30 pm and 5:00 pm ET. Registration is open and can be completed online through Zoom.

Additional training resources are located within a ZIP file in the Downloads section of the SNF Quality Reporting Program (QRP) Training page.

• These resources include an acronym list, Action Plan worksheet, Case Study documents, resource guide, and PDF versions of the training webinars.
• If you have questions regarding access to the resources or feedback related to the training, please email the PAC Training Mailbox.
• Content-related questions should be submitted to the SNF QRP Help Desk.

Learn more: VHCA-VCAL is hosting three upcoming MDS-focused training programs.

1. MDS Training Workshop | MDS Basic – Part I | June 14-15, 2023

• This workshop will focus on the role of the MDS in the LTCSP, offer line-by-line coding instructions for crucial sections, and more.

2. MDS Training Workshop | MDS Basic Part II | July 12-13, 2023

• This workshop is designed for MDS coordinators with at least six weeks of experience who need to learn more about the importance of accurate coding.

3. RAI Manual Changes for October 1, 2023 | July 27, 2023

• Judy Brandt will help you understand the upcoming changes to the RAI Manual and the interdisciplinary process required to capture the new items.