CMS has released the draft version of the MDS 3.0 RAI User’s Manual (v1.20.1), now available on the MDS 3.0 RAI Manual page. While the manual is still in draft form, the changes are significant and go into effect October 1, 2025. Facilities should begin planning now to prepare teams and systems for the transition.
Key Updates by Section
Section A – Identification Information
- A0800: Gender has been removed.
- A0810: Sex has been added (biological sex).
- A1250: Transportation has been removed.
Section GG – Functional Abilities & Goals
- Items GG0130 (Self-Care) and GG0170 (Mobility) have been restructured for clarity.
- These changes align MDS guidance with other post-acute care assessment tools.
Section O – Special Treatments, Procedures, and Programs
- O0390: Therapy Services – New checklist item for services received.
- O0400: Therapies – Revised to only include respiratory therapy days only.
- O0420: Distinct Calendar Days of Therapy – Removed.
NEW – Section R: Health-Related Social Needs
This newly added section emphasizes whole-person care by assessing key social needs:
- R0310: Living Situation
- R0320: Food
- R0330: Utilities
- R0340: Transportation
A complete breakdown of changes is included in the chapter/section change tables at the end of the draft manual.
Action Steps for Providers
- Download and review the draft from the CMS MDS 3.0 RAI Manual page.
- Evaluate internal systems and documentation workflows.
- Plan staff education and training to prepare for implementation.
These updates reflect CMS’s ongoing shift toward improving data accuracy, reducing redundancy, and supporting more comprehensive resident care planning.
Have questions or need support in preparing for these updates? Reach out to our team for customized guidance and training support at info@proactiveltcexperts.com
Written By: Sarah Becker, RN, RAC-CT, DNS-CT, QCP
Director of Clinical Reimbursement
Proactive LTC Consulting
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