LeadingAge NY continues to analyze the CMS RoP guideline updates recently announced in memorandum QSO-25-07-NH. These changes will take effect on Feb. 24, 2025, leaving providers a few short months to prepare. This article will review the transfer/discharge modifications and major updates facilities should be aware of.

CMS recently announced in memorandum QSO-25-07-NH a major update to guidance in many domains of the long-term care surveyor guidelines for nursing homes. With these changes taking effect on Feb. 24, 2025, there are just a few short months for providers to become knowledgeable about these changes, evaluate their current policies and procedures, identify gaps, and institute change along with education where needed. This article, the first in a series of segments, reviews the psychotropic medication modifications and major updates to be aware of.

The Industry Segment-Specific Compliance Program Guidance for Skilled Nursing Facilities and Nursing Facilities is intended to assist nursing homes in identifying their risks and in implementing effective compliance and quality programs to mitigate those risks.

CMS released significant updates to the State Operations Manual that is used to guide nursing home surveys and compliance with federal Requirements of Participation. The revised Manual takes effect on Feb. 24, 2025.

The deadline for responding to revalidation requests was delayed until May 1, 2025, and FAQs were posted.

On Nov. 1^st, CMS updated the guidance for completing the new Form 855A required for the nursing home off-cycle revalidation initiative.

Nursing homes will be required to complete an updated Medicare enrollment form that will require a significant amount of additional information.

All SNFs will have to submit a new CMS Form 855A, disclosing extensive information about entities and individuals who provide administrative, operational, clinical, consulting, and financial services. Guidance is being released on a rolling basis.