New Phase 3 Guidance

On June 29, 2022, CMS released QSO Letter 22-19 with revisions to surveyor guidance for Phases 2 and 3, arbitration agreement requirements, investigating complaints and facility reported incidents, and updates to the Psychosocial Outcome Severity Guide.  This information laid out the guidance for Phase 3 elements that included trauma-informed care, quality assurance and performance improvement (QAPI), compliance and ethics, and training programs, which had been highly anticipated since November of 2019.  Additional guidance was also added to cover such topics as binding arbitration agreements, mental health and substance use disorders and submission of nurse staffing data to the payroll-based journal (PBJ).

This guidance will go into effect October 24, 2022 and surveyors will be ready to observe for any noncompliance with these aspects during their visits. Now is the time to ensure that facility policies and procedures are up to date with the latest information to be in compliance with the newest guidance.

The Compliance Store can help

October is approaching quickly, and The Compliance Store has been working diligently over the last few weeks to ensure that relevant policies are reflective of the updated guidance. Our Mega Rule Phase 3 Policy List contains over 60 revised policies related to the updated guidance. Also, we are currently reviewing and revising relevant tools and resources to reflect the updated guidance.

The Compliance Store has policies, tools, manuals, and other resources that facilities need to help in their daily operations. For more information, contact us online or call us at 877-582-7347.