The Changing of the Long Term Care Season

When we think of October, thoughts of falling leaves, bonfires, pumpkin spice everything, and crisp, cool days come to mind.  However, for the long-term care setting, October is the time for a new fiscal year and the changes that come along with it.  Not only do providers have to deal with the expectations of payment changes, reporting requirements, VBP, QRP, and other items laid out in the FY 2023 SNF PPS final rule, but effective October 24, 2022, providers will also have to be ready for surveyor enforcement of the Phase 3 changes that were updated in Appendix PP earlier this year.

Phase 3 Enforcement

Facilities already have faced a tough uphill battle dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic and the changes to infection control practices and other regulations related to it in efforts to keep their residents and staff safe.  The pandemic placed a hold on the Phase 3 requirements that were to occur in 2020.  Now the time is here and enforcement of this guidance is quickly approaching. 

As surveyors are catching up with routine facility surveys, they are now tasked with observing for and potentially citing noncompliance with the updated regulations. Whether it is nursing, administration, social services, activities, dietary, or environmental services, everyone plays a part in the survey process and should be ready for when surveyors come to visit the facility. Policies and procedures should be reviewed and revised in accordance with the guidance, and staff should be educated and aware of the changes at this point.  

The Compliance Store Can Help!

The Compliance Store has worked diligently to ensure that our relevant policies and tools have been updated to reflect the updated guidance.  Our Mega Rule Phase 3 Policy and Tool List contains over 60 revised policies and over 40 revised tools in relation to the updated guidance to be ready for when October 24, 2022 arrives.

In addition, The Compliance Store has numerous, customizable policies, tools, and other resources to help facilities in their compliance and educational efforts.  For more information, contact us online or call us at 877-582-7347.