This week will complete LeadingAge NY's analysis of CMS's updates to the guidelines for surveyors described in memorandum QSO-25-07-NH. As a reminder, Feb. 24, 2025 is the official start date for implementation of these updates. This article will review the modifications and major updates to directives around pain recognition and management, definitions for ADLs, CPR training, and physical environment.

Public reporting for four Five-Star quality measures has been frozen at the January 2024 performance rates, and those measures will be replaced with new measures that will be used to calculate a Quality Measures star rating at the January 2025 Care Compare refresh.

As of Jan. 1^st, providers have been required to use a revised Notice of Medicare Non-Coverage and Detailed Explanation of Non-Coverage for patients and residents covered by Original Medicare. For patients and residents covered by Medicare Advantage plans, the revised DENC is not required until April 1, 2025, although the revised NOMNC must be used as of Jan. 1^st.

New law requires private sector employers to provide 20 hours of paid prenatal leave.

Provided through the Older Adults Home Modification Program, the grants allow low-income older adults to stay in their homes through low-cost, high-impact modifications that will reduce their risk of falling.

The final rule follows a years-long process to enhance and streamline the HOME Investment Partnerships Program, which many LeadingAge members use to develop new affordable housing for older adults.