Event Registration

Advanced MDS Training

Hybrid Format

This program will be offered in a hybrid format meaning you can attend in-person or virtually.

Note: Registering for this hybrid event grants you live access only.

Program Description

This advanced training program delves into the complexities of Minimum Data Set (MDS) 3.0 coding and its direct impact on Patient-Driven Payment Model (PDPM) reimbursement. Designed for experienced MDS coordinators and interdisciplinary team members, the training explores the most common challenges and pitfalls encountered in MDS coding, emphasizing strategies to ensure accuracy and compliance. A significant focus will be placed on understanding the critical relationship between Section GG outcomes and PDPM reimbursement, offering actionable insights into optimizing financial performance while delivering quality care. Participants will gain the tools and knowledge to refine processes, enhance documentation and support their facility’s clinical and financial success.

Learning Objectives

1. Identify common challenges and pitfalls in MDS 3.0 coding and documentation that may impact compliance and reimbursement.
2. Apply strategies to improve accuracy in MDS coding processes, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
3. Analyze the relationship between Section GG functional outcomes and PDPM reimbursement to enhance clinical and financial alignment.
4. Develop actionable approaches to optimize PDPM reimbursement while maintaining a focus on quality resident care.
5. Evaluate case studies and real-world scenarios to understand the practical implications of accurate MDS coding on facility outcomes.

Location

BCG Education Center
Iowa Health Care Association
1775 90^th St
West Des Moines, IA

Schedule

August 12, 2026
8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Lunch provided for in-person attendees

Continuing Education Credit

This program is approved for 6.5 contact hours for:

• NF administrators
• Nurses
• Social services

Registration Fees

Members:     $175 per person
Non-members:         $525 per person

Speakers

Kristine Martinez BSN, RN, RAC-CT, RAC-CTA, QCP, DNS-CT started her registered nurse career in acute care, where she spent 20 years in various settings, including oncology, orthopedics and ICU. In 2010, she started working part-time in a local 60-bed SNF/LTC, which supported culture change and person-centered care. She eventually took over both the MDS coordinator and director of nursing positions there, and for 10 years, Kristine was successfully able to combine those roles. She was also able to teach CNA classes at a local community college, which allowed her to incorporate culture change into CNA training with real-world applications. With this experience, Kristine became an expert at managing quality measures, case mix and reimbursement, resident-centered care planning, and surviving and thriving through the survey process. This career path has allowed her to transition into her current position with MDS Consultants, where she is responsible for system management and is the Assistant Director of Education.

Jessica Stucin, RN, BSN, LHNA, RAC-MT, RAC-CTA, QCP is a registered nurse with over 20 years of experience, primarily in long-term care. She began her career in critical care and has since held roles such as Clinical Staff Nurse, Charge Nurse, Assistant Director of Nursing, Director of Nursing, and MDS Coordinator. In 2022, she joined the MDS Consultant team, bringing expertise in MDS, care planning, clinical reimbursement, quality measures and more. She earned her BSN in 2020, completed Ohio’s Core of Knowledge program and became a licensed Nursing Home Administrator. Jessica holds multiple certifications from AAPACN, including RAC-CT, RAC-CTA, and QCP. She also serves as a Master Trainer for AAPACN’s RAC-CT certification program.