Getting Ready for MDS 3.0

 Tips to make the transition smooth for your facility 

The MDS 3.0 final draft was released in October, 2009. Facilities have until October, 2010 to implement documentation based on the new Minimum Data Set. 

There are many things Directors of Nursing and department heads can do to prepare for the transition: 

Review the preliminary MDS 3.0 draft, and consider main areas for training needs. Not all of the MDS will be changed. Certain sections will be altered more than others. Set priorities for training and documentation tools. 

Compose an outline for training and implementation with target dates. 

Estimate the time and cost of staff training.

Discuss budget needs with the Administrator. 

Meet with department heads to discuss the outline for training and implementation. 

Consider how the change in the MDS form will impact care plan forms and other data collection forms. Make a list of facility documentation to be updated. 

 Coding Manual for MDS 3.0

The MDS Coordinator's Handbook