The latest MDS 3.0 updates bring significant changes that senior living facilities need to stay on top of. These updates, effective October 1, 2024, introduce new requirements for documenting high-risk drug classes and tracking COVID-19 vaccination status for residents.

One key change is the inclusion of anticonvulsants in Section N0415 of the MDS 3.0 updates, adding this drug class to the list of high-risk medications. MDS coordinators must now carefully review resident prescriptions to ensure these medications are used appropriately and documented properly. For more information, you can find the full details from PharMerica [here] PMC-Compliance-Cue-MDS-Update-3.0-0924.pdf (pharmerica.com).

In addition, Section O0350 now requires facilities to track COVID-19 vaccination status, similar to the current requirements for flu and pneumococcal vaccines. If a resident isn’t up to date with their COVID-19 vaccinations, facilities are responsible for offering the vaccine and ensuring proper documentation.

Make sure your team is ready for these MDS 3.0 updates to ensure compliance and maintain the highest standard of care for your residents. Stay well and stay informed!