Q:
How will the removal of section G affect my everyday workflow?
A:
Section G has been removed from the federally required MDS item sets effective October 1, 2023. However, some states will continue to use section G information to complete an Optional State Assessment (OSA) and a few of the section G data elements have been moved to Section GG.
For states that will continue to be reimbursed by Medicaid using a RUG classification system, the four Late Loss ADLs of bed mobility, transfers, eating, and toileting will continue to be required in Section G of the OSA. The SNF will need to implement processes to meet ADL charting requirements to ensure information needed to accurately code ADLs is available when completing an OSA.
The OSA is not a Federally required assessment. The State Agency for payment will determine whether the OSA is required and when the assessment must be completed. For questions regarding completion of the OSA, please contact your State Agency. The OSA Manual and Item Set can be accessed at the link provided.
Items that have moved from section G to section GG are:
- Functional Limitation in Range of Motion-GG0115
- Mobility Devices-GG0120
- Personal Hygiene-GG0130I
- Tub/shower Transfer-GG0170FF
Being prepared for the October 1st changes to the MDS can be accomplished through education on the changes followed by advanced planning to ensure your facility is ready to meet the new requirements. Join Proactive for the upcoming MDS Updates & Areas of Impact webinar scheduled for July 19th. Discussion will include key changes to the MDS item sets, how to accurately code any new or revised items, and discussion of operational changes needed to facility processes.
Brandy Hayes, RN, RAC-CT, RAC-CTA
Clinical Consultant
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