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MDS 3.0: Worst Over?
MDS 3.0: Worst Over?
[McKnight's Long-Term Care News, April 1, 2011]
Months have passed since MDS 3.0 took effect, and in many cases, time has helped long-term care operators — and even software vendors — eliminate some of their most troubling transition woes.
The bridge period began as a logistical and implementation nightmare in October, thanks to software glitches stemming from last-minute regulation changes and weeks-long computer coding errors at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. But now things have seemingly settled down for many providers.
“The transition period was difficult because of software and CMS problems, and just trying to get to know the process, but it has definitely gotten easier. I would say we are doing very well,” says Flora Macatangay, RN, BSN, director of clinical assessments, standards and practice, Trinity Senior Living Communities, Livonia, MI.
Others echo that sentiment. One software executive, for example, noted that the implementation of MDS was essentially a “non-event” for the company's customers, thanks to targeted education, advance preparation and prompt software enhancements.
“They did not miss a beat in providing high-quality care while ensuring that the new assessments were completed accurately and on time,” says Steve Pacicco, CEO of New York-based SigmaCare/eHealth Solutions Inc.
Of course, getting to that point hasn't been easy. And it's possible that problems are still percolating beneath the surface, unbeknownst to some providers, explains one seniors housing consultant.
