CMS Proposed Rule for LTCFs Improves Care and Safety Protections for Residents

The White House Office of Management and Budget has finished its review of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid (CMS) final rule updating participation requirements for long-term care facilities (LTCFs).

The policies in the rule aim to reduce unnecessary hospital readmissions and infections, and improve the quality of care, and strengthen safety measures for residents in LTCFs. CMS acting administrator Andy Slavitt said “The health and safety of residents of long-term care facilities are our top priorities.”

Some specific changes for facilities finalized in this rule include: strengthening the rights of LTCF residents; ensuring that staff members are properly trained; improving care planning and transitions; and updating the LTCFs infection prevention and control program.

The proposal marks the first comprehensive update made to Medicaid managed care regulations in more than a decade. The rule will also cap insurer profits, require states to more rigorously supervise the adequacy of plans’ provider networks, and encourage states to establish quality rating systems for health plans.

CMS received nearly 10,000 public comments, which were considered in finalizing this rule. The rule was published October 5, 2016.—Amanda Del Signore