CMS is introducing a more streamlined review process for higher-performing nursing homes as well as an easier way for consumers to discover them when searching the CMS website. The Quality, Safety and Oversight (QSO) Memo outlines this risk-based survey (RBS) process that strategically directs state agencies’ limited resources where they are needed most — by focusing fewer resources on the nation’s higher-performing nursing homes so states can address issues in nursing homes where residents’ health and safety are at greater risk. To identify these higher-performing facilities, CMS will place an icon on the Care Compare tool on Medicare.gov.
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The July 2026 skilled nursing facility (SNF) survey trend report is now available in the IHCA Member Resource Center and highlights the most frequently cited tags and regulatory outcomes from Iowa SNFs. Sponsored by HPSI Purchasing Services, this member-only resource is a helpful tool for survey readiness and planning, with data largely reflecting surveys completed about two months prior to publication. The report also recognizes IHCA member facilities that achieved a deficiency-free recertification survey.
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No matter where your organization is on its AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award journey, IHCA has a workshop designed to help you take the next step. Whether you're preparing your first Bronze application, advancing to Silver or pursuing the prestigious Gold Award, these programs provide expert guidance, practical tools and opportunities to strengthen your organization's performance.
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IHCA's Convention and Trade Show on Sept. 14-16, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., is Iowa's largest gathering of long-term care professionals and offers more than 40 education sessions, over 90 trade show exhibitors, and up to 16.0 contact hours. Early bird registration ends this Friday, July 17.
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No matter where your organization is on its AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award journey, IHCA has a workshop designed to help you take the next step. Whether you're preparing your first Bronze application, advancing to Silver or pursuing the prestigious Gold Award, these programs provide expert guidance, practical tools and opportunities to strengthen your organization's performance.
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CMS recently posted an update to the Five-Star Quality Rating System Technical User’s Guide, effective with the July 2026 refresh. CMS is implementing an increase to the quality measure (QM) rating thresholds, increasing each rating threshold by one-half of the average improvement in QM scores (as previously outlined in QSO 19-08-NH). While the thresholds used to assign QM star ratings have increased, the point thresholds for the individual QMs have not changed. As a result, some facilities may need higher overall QM performance to maintain the same QM star rating.
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Several of Iowa’s licensing boards have recently received reports of scammers calling licensees and posing as board investigators, claiming to have received complaints against that licensee. If a potential scam victim believes a caller could be from a licensing board but is unsure, they should take a name, hang up and call the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing (DIAL). Anyone who receives a suspicious call should protect their confidential information and not engage with anyone claiming to be an Iowa licensing board staff member until they can confirm via return call that the request is legitimate.
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This week's Compliance Store resources include tips on how to empower residents through person-centered care, two recalls on the Fresenius Kabi Ivenix Large Volume Infusion Pump, customizable infection prevention and control (IPC) policy templates and more. Learn how to access these materials through your free IHCA member benefit.
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The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) will offer a free webinar, "How Does Primary State of Residence Impact the Multistate License?," next Tuesday, July 21 at 2:00 p.m. Additionally, the NLC will host another complimentary webinar regarding multistate licenses for LPNs/VNs in late August.
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With the 2026 election quickly approaching, long-term care providers can play a significant role in helping residents exercise their right to vote. Every election, seniors and other residents have a right to make their voices heard, and providers should make every effort to help them in doing so, including completing prior research, providing resources and assisting residents in following federal regulations, registering to vote and voting at the polls or via mail-in ballot.
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IHCA Provider Solutions has expanded MDS Support to offer a broader range of services tailored to the unique needs of nursing facilities. From remote MDS completion and compliance reviews to Case Mix maximization and PDPM reimbursement audits, MDS Support helps facilities improve accuracy, efficiency and financial performance.
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IHCA's Convention and Trade Show on Sept. 14-16, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., is Iowa's largest gathering of long-term care professionals and offers more than 40 education sessions, over 90 trade show exhibitors, and up to 16.0 contact hours. Early bird registration ends next Friday, July 17.
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Resident choice is a key component of person-centered care. Interpretive guidance, located in Appendix PP of the State Operations Manual, reminds nursing homes that residents have the right to participate in decisions about their care, including whether to accept or refuse medications. Guidance on this topic is located under F552, Right to be Informed/Make Treatment Decisions. To ensure compliance, providers should review their processes and ensure staff understand their responsibilities on a routine cadence.
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IHCA recently shared CMS’ notification about transitioning Payroll Based Journal (PBJ) reporting to the Internet Quality Improvement and Evaluation System (iQIES), effective with the Q4 2026 submission, which closes Nov. 14, 2026. Last week, CMS shared additional information with providers. Members are encouraged to review the information and begin gaining access to IQIES PBJ User Roles immediately to avoid delays in reporting.
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This week's Compliance Store highlights include new proposed changes to a Medicare provider enrollment requirements, a COVID-19 emergency use authorization (EUA) declaration terminations notice, tracheostomy care policy and additional regulatory resources for skilled nursing facilities. Learn how to access these materials through your free IHCA member benefit.
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As a reminder, the Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Data Validation Process for the SNF Value-Based Purchasing and Quality Reporting Programs is now in effect. Selected SNFs will be notified through their Internet Quality Improvement and Evaluation System (iQIES) Minimum Data Set (MDS) 3.0 Provider Preview Report folder and must submit medical chart documentation for ten MDS assessments within 45 days to avoid a 2% Medicare reimbursement penalty. Facilities are encouraged to begin checking their iQIES folders weekly and seek additional guidance from CMS, if needed.
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CMS is proposing new safeguards, continuing its campaign mission to crush fraud, waste and abuse throughout its programs. The calendar year (CY) 2027 Home Health (HH) Prospective Payment System (PPS) proposed rule would strengthen CMS’ ability to recover improper payments and remove noncompliant providers and suppliers from Medicare, actions estimated to save approximately $82 million in annual savings. This would also expand access for patients receiving care at home and improve the timeliness of publicly reported HH agency quality information. Although included in the CY 2027 HH PPS proposed rule, the provider enrollment provisions would apply across Medicare provider and supplier types. IHCA anticipates these proposed changes would have nominal impact on SNF providers.
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Effective Oct. 1, 2026, Iowa Total Care will reinstate its pre-COVID-19 prior authorization (PA) review process for post-acute placements. As part of Iowa Total Care’s ongoing work to improve the PA process for both providers and members, Iowa Total Care shares some important updates to its PA requirements with a goal to reduce administrative burden, simplify submission and approval processes and facilitate timely access to appropriate, high-quality care.
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The July 2026 Wellpoint Provider Newsletter is now available. Newsletter items include clinical criteria updates, prior authorization (PA) requirement changes, provider data attestation reminder, service line limits for Medicare Advantage (MA) claims and more.
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IHCA's Convention and Trade Show on Sept. 14-16, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., is Iowa's largest gathering of long-term care professionals and offers more than 40 education sessions, over 90 trade show exhibitors, and up to 16.0 contact hours. Early bird registration ends July 17, and all applications for registration grants from the IHCA Foundation are due today, July 1, by 11:59 p.m.
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In partnership with the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), The Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) is offering a complimentary Long-Term Care (LTC) Infection Preventionist Essentials course. This virtual course will take place next week on July 7-9, and will provide live access only.
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Preparing for a life safety survey starts well before surveyors arrive. AHCA’s new Tips for Preparing Before Your Life Safety Survey checklist helps providers organize essential documentation, identify potential gaps and maintain year-round readiness to support a smoother survey process and ongoing regulatory compliance.
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The University of Iowa School of Social Work is seeking senior living and long-term care organizations interested in serving as practicum placement sites for social work students. Students can support residents, families and interdisciplinary teams through activities such as care planning, psychosocial support, resident programming and staff education while gaining valuable hands-on experience. Organizations interested in hosting a student can learn more through the University of Iowa School of Social Work.
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This week's Compliance Store highlights include a new HIV in Long-Term Care resource, PBJ/iQIES transition guidance, June Five-Star updates and additional regulatory resources for skilled nursing facilities. Learn how to access these materials through your free IHCA member benefit and meet your new Compliance Store account manager.
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Iowa Total Care's 2026 Provider Summit Series is an opportunity to receive updates, educational sessions and expert guidance on topics including claims, contracting, authorizations and provider programs. Attend the in-person summit in West Des Moines on Aug. 27 or participate virtually on Sept. 10 to connect directly with Iowa Total Care subject matter experts and get your questions answered.
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IHCA's advocacy isn't measured only by the bills that pass – it's also reflected in the harmful legislation that never becomes law. Since 2020, the association has helped defeat more than two dozen proposals that would have increased costs, added regulatory burdens or reduced provider flexibility, including several key measures during the 2026 legislative session. Learn how these efforts protect providers and why member engagement will be critical as lawmakers begin shaping 2027 priorities.
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Nominations are due this Saturday, June 27, for IHCA members in good standing who are interested in serving on the 2027 IHCA Board of Trustees. The nomination form must be submitted by June 27, with voting taking place July 31 through Sept. 8 and newly elected leaders announced at the IHCA Annual Business Meeting during the 2026 Convention on Sept. 15. Positions open include Board officers as well as chair and vice-chair roles for the skilled nursing, assisted living, home care and care continuum provider cabinets.
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Join Iowa's largest gathering of long-term care professionals, IHCA's Convention and Trade Show, on Sept. 14-16. This conference, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., will feature more than 40 education sessions, up to 16.0 contact hours and more than 90 trade show exhibitors. Register by July 17 to receive the early bird discount. Additionally, The IHCA Foundation is offering a handful of grants to cover Convention registration for IHCA members. Apply by next Wednesday, July 1, for your chance to be selected.
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The June 2026 skilled nursing facility (SNF) survey trend report is now available in the IHCA Member Resource Center and highlights the most frequently cited tags and regulatory outcomes from Iowa SNFs. Sponsored by HPSI Purchasing Services, this member-only resource is a helpful tool for survey readiness and planning, with data largely reflecting surveys completed about two months prior to publication. The report also recognizes an IHCA member facility that achieved a deficiency-free recertification survey.
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In partnership with the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), The Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) is offering a complimentary, virtual Long-Term Care (LTC) Infection Preventionist (IP) Essentials course on July 7-9. Space is limited, so early registration is encouraged.
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IHCA continues to review the Iowa Administrative Bulletin for potential impacts to long-term care providers. The May 27 and June 10 issues include a newly noticed rule regarding quality improvement initiative grants, as well as adopted and filed rules related to the Certificate of Need program, Medicaid waiver services, policies related to providers of medical and remedial care, the Iowa Health and Wellness Plan and more.
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Iowa Medicaid is launching a statewide provider revalidation initiative in response to requirements from CMS. This effort is designed to strengthen program integrity, ensure accurate provider information and reduce fraud, waste and abuse. Revalidation will occur over a two‑year period, from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2028. Providers will receive revalidation notices in phases. Each provider will have approximately 30 days to complete the revalidation process once notified.
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CMS announced that, effective Aug. 17, 2026, the Payroll-Based Journal (PBJ) system will transition to the Internet Quality Improvement and Evaluation System (iQIES), CMS's secure cloud-based system. The first PBJ submission through iQIES will be due on Nov. 14, 2026, and providers should take steps now to ensure readiness well before that deadline.
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CMS has posted the 2027 ICD-10-CM, files which contain information on the ICD-10-CM updates for Fiscal Year (FY) 2026. These 2026 ICD-10-CM codes are to be used for resident stays occurring from Oct. 1, 2026, through Sept. 30, 2027. At this time, the FY 2027 ICD-10-CM coding guidelines have not been posted. The ICD-10-CM updates will also be reflected in the FY 2027 Patient-Driven Payment Model (PDPM) ICD-10 mapping tables once they are posted by CMS, which typically occurs after the final rule is released later this summer.
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CMS has released a new fact sheet with valuable clarifications to help skilled nursing facilities determine when an Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (OBRA) Discharge Assessment is required. The resource provides a quick reference for Minimum Data Set (MDS) teams and reinforces existing guidance in the MDS 3.0 Resident Assessment Index User's Manual.
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As temperatures rise during the summer months, long-term care providers should be prepared to protect residents from the risks associated with extreme heat. Older adults are particularly vulnerable to heat-related illnesses due to chronic medical conditions, medications, decreased mobility and a reduced ability to regulate body temperature. IHCA encourages facilities to review and update their emergency preparedness plans that address heat emergencies and prolonged air conditioning outages. Visit the IHCA website and The Compliance Store for additional emergency preparedness tools, resources and guidance.
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced updates for the National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) Long-Term Care Facility (LTCF) Component for the Respiratory Pathogens Module. Changes include the ability to generate reports for the optional reporting of therapeutic medications and an optional Person-Level Vaccination Form for residents, which now auto-calculates a resident’s vaccination status for COVID-19, influenza and respiratory syncytial virus.
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Strong food and nutrition programs are essential to residents’ health, satisfaction, dignity and quality of life. To support providers in strengthening these efforts, the AHCA Education: Optimizing Excellence in Food and Nutrition Toolkit is now available. This toolkit highlights practical strategies and resources designed to help facilities optimize foodservice operations and enhance the dining experience for residents.
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In partnership with the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), The Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) is offering a complimentary, virtual Long-Term Care (LTC) Infection Preventionist (IP) Essentials course on July 7-9. Space is limited, so early registration is encouraged.
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The U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) Wage and Hour Division recently issued four new opinion letters addressing key wage and hour issues under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), including overtime exemptions, bonus calculations, meal periods and compensable work time.
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After years of advocacy, IHCA secured the largest single-year non-provider tax Medicaid funding increase for skilled nursing facilities in recent history. Now, another rebase year is approaching. As Iowa enters the 2027 legislative session, competition for state resources will be intense. Providers will once again need a strong, unified voice to educate lawmakers about the importance of sustainable Medicaid funding. The groundwork for 2027 starts now. As competition for state resources intensifies, member engagement will be essential to protecting and advancing the gains we've made. Whether you're interested in hosting a legislator visit at your facility, supporting the Iowa Health PAC or learning more about IHCA's advocacy successes, now is the time to get involved.
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Fifteen IHCA members from across the state graduated from the 2025-26 IHCA Executive Health Care Leadership Institute, a 10-month program focused on leadership development, quality improvement and workforce engagement, sponsored by Brighton Consulting Group. Participants completed projects addressing key priorities such as staff retention, resident oral health, family communication, fall reduction and wound care, helping strengthen care and services for older Iowans.
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Earning an AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award is a prestigious achievement for long-term and post-acute care providers committed to continuous quality improvement. Organizations ready to begin their quality journey can join the hybrid Bronze Quality Award Application Workshop on Tuesday, Aug. 11, while current Bronze recipients can advance to the next level through the virtual Silver Quality Award Application Workshop beginning on Thursday, Aug. 13. Registration is now open for both workshops, sponsored by Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy.
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The Annual Choice Period is the chance to review current health and dental plans and make changes if needed. Tomorrow, June 18, is the deadline to change dental plan enrollment for coverage beginning July 1, 2026. Medicaid members also have an additional 90 days after June 18 to change dental plan enrollment with a future effective date.
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Enrollment Support from IHCA Provider Solutions helps facilities reduce administrative burden by managing the Medicaid enrollment process from start to finish. By handling applications, RFIs, family follow-up, recertifications and status tracking, the service allows staff to focus on admissions, operations and resident care while helping residents achieve Medicaid approval in an average of just 36 days from initial family contact.
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Nominations are due next week for IHCA members in good standing who are interested in serving on the 2027 IHCA Board of Trustees. The nomination form must be submitted by June 27, with voting taking place July 31 through Sept. 8 and newly elected leaders announced at the IHCA Annual Business Meeting during the 2026 Convention on Sept. 15. Positions open include Board officers as well as chair and vice-chair roles for the skilled nursing, assisted living, home care and care continuum provider cabinets.
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Join Iowa's largest gathering of long-term care professionals, IHCA's Convention and Trade Show, on Sept. 14-16. This conference, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., features more than 40 education sessions, up to 16.0 contact hours and more than 90 trade show exhibitors. Register by July 17 to receive the early bird discount. Additionally, The IHCA Foundation is offering a handful of grants to cover Convention registration for IHCA members. Apply by July 1 for your chance to be selected.
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In partnership with the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), The Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) is offering a complimentary, virtual Long-Term Care (LTC) Infection Preventionist (IP) Essentials course on July 7-9. Space is limited, so early registration is encouraged.
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AHCA/NCAL is offering an opportunity from the Customer Experience Committee to participate in a new "Journey to Using and Implementing CoreQ" project. This initiative aims to capture and highlight the experiences, strategies and lessons learned by communities engaged in CoreQ implementation and ongoing use. Complete the survey and share your community's journey by Friday, July 31, at 4:00 p.m.
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Nominations are open for IHCA members in good standing who are interested in serving on the 2027 IHCA Board of Trustees. The nomination form must be submitted by June 27, with voting taking place July 31 through Sept. 8 and newly elected leaders announced at the IHCA Annual Business Meeting during the 2026 Convention on Sept. 15. Positions open include Board officers as well as chair and vice-chair roles for the skilled nursing, assisted living, home care and care continuum provider cabinets.
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Fifty-seven IHCA members received the 2026 Bronze – Commitment to Quality Award from AHCA/NCAL, ranking Iowa first in the nation for the number of Bronze-level recipients. The awards recognize long-term care providers that demonstrate a strong commitment to improving quality of care, resident experience and organizational performance. Congratulations to these members on their quality journeys!
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CMS has released FY 2026 guidance for Federal Monitoring Surveys (FMS), outlining how federal surveyors will oversee state-conducted nursing home surveys, including health, Emergency Preparedness (EP) and Life Safety Code (LSC) Surveys, through Sept. 30, 2026. Due to survey disruptions caused by the 2025 federal government shutdown, CMS reduced the required number of monitoring activities by 10%, resulting in two fewer Resource and Support Surveys in Iowa compared to the previous fiscal year. The guidance also details three federal oversight activities – Resource and Support Surveys, Comparative Surveys and EP/LSC Desk Audits – and notes that CMS may take enforcement action if deficiencies requiring correction are identified.
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The International Code Council (ICC) recently approved restoring nursing homes to Risk Category III for the 2027 International Building Code (IBC). This change is consistent with AHCA’s testimony before the ICC where AHCA emphasized the strength of nursing home preparedness and the negative financial impact the 2024 IBC would have on nursing home construction, renovation and access to care. The full IBC 2027 edition is expected to be released in late 2026.
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CMS is moving guidance and survey procedures for End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) facilities to Appendix H of the State Operations Manual. This change aligns ESRD survey guidance with how guidance is organized for other provider types. CMS is also updating the guidance to reflect recent regulatory changes, previous Quality, Safety and Oversight (QSO) memos and technical clarifications for ESRD facility requirements and expectations. This includes guidance and survey processes for home dialysis in nursing homes from QSO-18-24-ESRD.
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The recent Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Health Alert Network update regarding hantavirus has understandably raised questions across health care settings, including long-term care (LTC). While headlines involving outbreaks and respiratory illness can quickly generate concern, context is relevant when assessing the true level of risk and operational impact for providers and residents. At this time, the CDC continues to emphasize that the overall risk to the American public remains very low. The current concern is tied to a travel-associated Andes virus outbreak connected to a cruise ship exposure event, not widespread U.S. transmission.
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As a reminder, the Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Data Validation Process for the SNF Value-Based Purchasing and Quality Reporting programs is now in effect. Selected SNFs will be notified through their Internet Quality Improvement and Evaluation System (iQIES) Minimum Data Set (MDS) 3.0 Provider Preview Report folder and must submit medical chart documentation for ten MDS assessments within 45 days to avoid a 2% Medicare reimbursement penalty. Facilities are encouraged to begin checking their iQIES folders weekly and seek additional guidance from CMS, if needed.
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U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently announced a new policy about “adjustment of status,” which is the process of applying for a Green Card while staying in the U.S. Under this policy, most people who are in the U.S. on temporary visas — such as student visas, work visas or tourist visas — will have to return to their home country and apply for a Green Card through a U.S. consulate there. USCIS stated that applying inside the U.S. will only be allowed in rare or “extraordinary” situations. However, this policy may face legal challenges going forward.
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Nominations are open for IHCA members in good standing who are interested in serving on the 2027 IHCA Board of Trustees. The nomination form must be submitted by June 27, with voting taking place July 31 through Sept. 8 and newly elected leaders announced at the IHCA Annual Business Meeting during the 2026 Convention on Sept. 15. Positions open include Board officers as well as chair and vice-chair roles for the skilled nursing, assisted living, home care and care continuum provider cabinets.
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IHCA Foundation scholarship applications for the 2026–2027 academic year close this Sunday. These scholarship opportunities are for individuals pursuing or advancing a career in long-term care. Designed to support both current long-term care professionals and high school seniors planning to enter the field, these scholarships help invest in the future of long-term care.
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The May 2026 skilled nursing facility (SNF) survey trend report is now available in the IHCA Member Resource Center and highlights the most frequently cited tags and regulatory outcomes from Iowa SNFs. Sponsored by HPSI Purchasing Services, this member-only resource is a helpful tool for survey readiness and planning, with data largely reflecting surveys completed about two months prior to publication. The report also recognizes an IHCA member facility that achieved a deficiency-free recertification survey.
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AHCA recently developed a new falls toolkit, Safe Steps Forward, to support providers in strengthening their fall prevention programs through practical, evidence-informed strategies. This toolkit provides information for various resources designed to help interdisciplinary teams identify risk factors, implement targeted interventions and continuously evaluate outcomes as part of an effective quality assurance and performance improvement approach.
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CMS is reinforcing the federal government’s broader push toward electronic payments by encouraging providers to submit Civil Money Penalty payments electronically through Pay.gov. CMS notes that electronic payment through Pay.gov helps avoid delays in processing and ensures timely receipt and application of payments to the appropriate case file.
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IHCA continues to review the Iowa Administrative Bulletin for potential impacts to long-term care providers. The April 29 and May 13 issues include a newly noticed rule from the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services sharing proposed amendments to the requirements for participation in the Professional Counselors Licensure Compact and a regulatory analysis regarding the Civil Money Penalties quality improvement initiative grants.
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Nominations for the 2026 Provider Achieving Care Excellence (ACE) Awards – formerly the AHCA/NCAL Awards – are due by this Friday, May 29, at 10:59 p.m. CDT. This year’s program includes recognition opportunities such as the AHCA and NCAL Leader of the Year and Noble Caregiver Awards, along with the Mary K. Ousley Champion of Quality Award and the Jan Thayer Pioneer Award, honoring outstanding leaders and caregivers across skilled nursing and assisted living.
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Nominations are open for IHCA members in good standing who are interested in serving on the 2027 IHCA Board of Trustees. The nomination form must be submitted by June 27, with voting taking place July 31 through Sept. 8 and newly elected leaders announced at the IHCA Annual Business Meeting during the 2026 Convention on Sept. 15. Positions open include Board officers as well as chair and vice-chair roles for the skilled nursing, assisted living, home care and care continuum provider cabinets.
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The IHCA Foundation is currently offering scholarship opportunities for individuals pursuing or advancing a career in long-term care. Designed to support both current long-term care professionals looking to strengthen their health care or leadership skills and high school seniors planning to enter the field, these scholarships help invest in the future of long-term care. Applications for the 2026–2027 academic year close in less than two weeks; apply today!
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Nominations are now open for IHCA members in good standing who are interested in serving on the 2027 IHCA Board of Trustees. The nomination form must be submitted by June 27, with voting taking place July 31 through Sept. 8 and newly elected leaders announced at the IHCA Annual Business Meeting during the 2026 Convention on Sept. 15. Positions open include Board officers as well as chair and vice-chair roles for the skilled nursing, assisted living, home care and care continuum provider cabinets.
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The University of Iowa College of Public Health, Carver College of Medicine and The State Hygienic Lab, in collaboration with the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services, are hosting its final free Candida auris (C. auris) tabletop exercise tomorrow, May 21, in Des Moines. This exercise is designed to strengthen preparedness, enhance coordination and support continuous improvement in response procedures. Although C. auris is the organism of focus, this tabletop provides guidance on handling all multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) and preventing interfacility and regional spread.
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Following IHCA's April Managed Care Organization Call, Iowa Total Care has provided responses and additional clarification on authorization issues related to CareBridge, electronic visit verification (EVV)-related issues, dual-eligible claims and more, which are shared for reference and continued guidance.
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Delayed Medicaid approvals, incomplete applications and missed follow-ups can quickly lead to write-offs and bad debt. Enrollment Support from IHCA Provider Solutions manages the Medicaid process from start to finish, helping facilities protect cash flow while reducing administrative burden. Early results show participating facilities averaging just 36 days from first contact with a resident’s family to Medicaid approval.
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Nominations for the 2026 Provider Achieving Care Excellence (ACE) Awards – formerly the AHCA/NCAL Awards – are due by next Friday, May 29, at 10:59 p.m. CDT. This year’s program includes recognition opportunities such as the AHCA and NCAL Leader of the Year and Noble Caregiver Awards, along with the Mary K. Ousley Champion of Quality Award and the Jan Thayer Pioneer Award, honoring outstanding leaders and caregivers across skilled nursing and assisted living.
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IHCA’s 2026 legislative advocacy delivered significant results for Iowa long-term care providers, including Certified Medication Aide (CMA) reform, over $8 million in Elderly Waiver funding, preservation of key reimbursement protections and a substantial reduction in the impact of proposed property tax increases. Additional wins included addressing managed care claims issues and preventing burdensome legislation from advancing. View the full 2026 Legislative Outcomes Report for a comprehensive overview of the association’s advocacy efforts and legislative achievements during the 2026 session.
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The Payroll Based Journal (PBJ) submission deadline for quarter two (Jan. 1, 2026 – March 31, 2026) is this Friday, May 15, at 10:59 p.m. CDT. It is recommended that providers submit well before the deadline. Early submission allows time to identify and correct rejected files, resolve validation errors and resubmit if needed without the pressure of an expiring deadline.
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Whether you need immediate help completing MDS assessments or want to strengthen your team’s processes and performance, IHCA Provider Solutions offers two flexible MDS Support options tailored to your facility’s needs. From remote MDS completion during staffing shortages to in-depth consulting that improves accuracy, compliance and reimbursement, both services are designed to help nursing facilities operate more efficiently and protect revenue.
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The submission deadline for the Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Quality Reporting Program (QRP) is this coming Monday, May 18. This includes Minimum Data Set assessment data and COVID-19 vaccination coverage for health care personnel (HCP) submitted to CMS via the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) for Sept. 1 - Dec. 31 (Q4) of calendar year 2025, along with the annual NHSN Influenza Vaccination Among HCP Measure data (for the 2025-2026 season).
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) have outlined updates to the personal needs allowance and supplemental personal needs payments, which increased from $50 to $55 per month for Medicaid members living in facilities, retroactive to Aug. 1, 2025. Iowa Medicaid and DHHS have completed the necessary system updates, and affected fee-for-service claims will be automatically reprocessed while managed care organizations will reprocess applicable managed care claims. Providers should review updated client participation amounts now available in the system and resubmit any claims that were previously denied due to incorrect member information.
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The John W. and Kimberly D. Grubb Registered Nurse (RN) Scholarship, made possible by the John R. and Zelda Z. Grubb Charitable Foundation, is available for an employee of an IHCA member organization pursuing an accredited RN degree during the 2026-2027 academic year. One $3,000 scholarship is available. Applications for this scholarship program are open now through May 31, 2026. Additionally, applications for all IHCA Foundation scholarship programs will close in less than three weeks; submit your applications today!
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National Skilled Nursing Care Week, May 10–16, 2026, celebrates the compassion, growth and connections that define skilled nursing care through this year’s theme, “Moments in Bloom.” IHCA is providing ready-to-use social media graphics and encouraging members to share photos of their celebrations. Facilities can also access additional planning tools and promotional resources from AHCA to enhance their week.
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The Payroll Based Journal (PBJ) submission deadline for quarter two (Jan. 1, 2026 – March 31, 2026) is next Friday, May 15, at 10:59 p.m. CDT. It is recommended that providers submit well before the deadline. Early submission allows time to identify and correct rejected files, resolve validation errors and resubmit if needed without the pressure of an expiring deadline.
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The submission deadline for the Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Quality Reporting Program (QRP) is May 18. This includes Minimum Data Set assessment data and COVID-19 vaccination coverage for health care personnel (HCP) submitted to CMS via the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention National Healthcare Safety Network for Sept. 1 - Dec. 31 (Q4) of calendar year 2025, along with the annual NHSN Influenza Vaccination Among HCP Measure data (for the 2025-2026 season).
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As a reminder, the Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Data Validation Process for the SNF Value-Based Purchasing and Quality Reporting programs is now in effect. Selected SNFs will be notified through their Internet Quality Improvement and Evaluation System (iQIES) Minimum Data Set (MDS) 3.0 Provider Preview Report folder and must submit medical chart documentation for ten MDS assessments within 45 days to avoid a 2% Medicare reimbursement penalty. Facilities are encouraged to begin checking their iQIES folders weekly and seek additional guidance from CMS, if needed.
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On April 30, the Iowa Total Care provider relations team released a provider alert regarding person-centered service plans (PCSPs) and level of care assessments. While Iowa Total Care continues to enhance the functionality of the Availity Portal, PCSPs and level of care assessments can be found on its Legacy Portal.
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The MolinaCares High School Scholarship, made possible by the Molina Healthcare Charitable Foundation (MolinaCares), is now available for Iowa high school seniors who are in their senior year of high school during the 2025-2026 academic year and interested in pursuing a nursing career in long-term care. A total of nine $2,000 scholarships are available. Applications for this scholarship program are open now through May 31, 2026.
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The Hospital and Healthcare Compensation Service (HCS) is currently collecting data for its annual Nursing Home Salary and Benefits Study. The deadline has been extended to Monday, June 1, due to the Memorial Day holiday weekend and the final report is scheduled for publication in July. The study provides comprehensive benchmarking on salaries, bonuses, hourly wages, staffing metrics and benefits across more than 100 long-term care positions, helping providers strengthen compensation and workforce strategies. Participation is free, and participants can purchase the final report at a discounted rate.
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Nominations are open for the 2026 Provider Achieving Care Excellence (ACE) Awards – formerly the AHCA/NCAL Awards – with submissions due by Friday, May 29, at 10:59 p.m. CDT. This year’s program includes recognition opportunities such as the AHCA and NCAL Leader of the Year and Noble Caregiver Awards, along with the Mary K. Ousley Champion of Quality Award and the Jan Thayer Pioneer Award, honoring outstanding leaders and caregivers across skilled nursing and assisted living.
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National Skilled Nursing Care Week, May 10–16, 2026, celebrates the compassion, growth and connections that define skilled nursing care through this year’s theme, “Moments in Bloom.” IHCA invites you to showcase your everyday moments of care. Submit photos to the IHCA communications team by this Friday, May 1, including your facility name and contact information, for a chance to be featured on IHCA’s social media channels. Additionally, IHCA is providing ready-to-use social media graphics and encouraging members to share photos of their celebrations for a chance to be featured. Facilities can also access additional planning tools and promotional resources from AHCA to enhance their week.
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IHCA is pleased to share that two IHCA members have been appointed by Governor Reynolds to serve on the Iowa Board of Nursing Home Administrators: BJ Baskerville of West Ridge Care Center and Lori Baranowski of Campbell Street Services. IHCA congratulates both appointees and appreciates their commitment to strengthening the long-term care profession.
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The April 2026 skilled nursing facility (SNF) survey trend report is now available in the IHCA Member Resource Center and highlights the most frequently cited tags and regulatory outcomes from Iowa SNFs. Sponsored by HPSI Purchasing Services, this member-only resource is a helpful tool for survey readiness and planning, with data largely reflecting surveys completed about two months prior to publication. The report also recognizes an IHCA member facility that achieved a deficiency-free recertification survey.
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The Payroll Based Journal (PBJ) submission deadline for quarter two (Jan. 1, 2026 – March 31, 2026) is May 15, 2026, at 10:59 p.m. CDT. It is recommended that providers submit well before the deadline. Early submission allows time to identify and correct rejected files, resolve validation errors and resubmit if needed without the pressure of an expiring deadline.
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) Long-Term Care Team and Prevention and Therapeutics Unit will hold a training webinar on the Respiratory Pathogens and Vaccination (RPV) Module tomorrow, April 30, at noon. This webinar will review optional reporting of therapeutic medications, updates to the person-level vaccination form for residents and the up-to-date definition for COVID-19 vaccines for quarters one and two of 2026.
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IHCA continues to review the Iowa Administrative Bulletin for potential impacts to long-term care providers. The April 15 issue includes a newly noticed rule from the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services outlining procedures for record check evaluations. These will be used to determine employment eligibility for individuals with certain criminal convictions or founded abuse findings in health care settings and related training programs.
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CMS recently announced enhancements to the Minimum Data Set (MDS) 3.0 Resident-Level Quality Measure report for the re-specified hybrid long-stay antipsychotic measure Percent of Residents Who Received an Antipsychotic Medication. To assist nursing homes in understanding the reason the measure was triggered, or whether the resident was included or excluded from the measure, additional information has been added to the report. In addition to viewing whether the measure was triggered or not triggered, three additional data fields have been added to the report, along with referencing footnotes to explain the data.
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CMS is offering a web-based training that provides the latest information about the respecification of the Falls with Major Injury (FMI) Quality Measure (QM) for post-acute care (PAC) settings. The training provides an overview of the legacy and respecified FMI QM, discusses how the respecified measure includes both assessment and claims/encounter data in the respecified measure specifications and reviews key changes in PAC data collection guidance related to falls and injuries.
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The IHCA Foundation is now offering two different scholarship opportunities for new and experienced directors of nursing (DONs), made possible by Care Initiatives. The Care Initiatives New DON Scholarship is made for new DONs to attend the DON Fundamentals - A Playbook for New Nurse Leaders Program in October and the Care Initiatives DON Leadership Scholarship is made for DONs to attend the American Association of Post-Acute Care Nursing (AAPACN) Director of Nursing Services (DNS-CT) Program in December. Applications for these scholarship programs are open now through May 31, 2026.
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IHCA encourages members to attend upcoming legislative town halls as a practical way to support grassroots advocacy and connect directly with elected officials. These local forums provide an opportunity to share real-world perspective on how legislation impacts long-term care and reinforce IHCA’s 2026 priorities. Upcoming events include town halls and legislative forums in Iowa City, Eldridge, Glidden and more.
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House File 2680 is workforce‑focused legislation enacted by the Iowa General Assembly and signed into law by Gov. Reynolds on April 16, 2026, that significantly changes how certified medication aides (CMAs) are credentialed, recognized and regulated across Iowa health care settings. The bill is designed to remove unnecessary barriers to certification, expand the available labor pool and create regulatory consistency across facility types where CMAs are valuable workforce contributors, such as nursing homes, assisted living programs, residential care facilities and intermediate care settings.
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On April 9, 2026, Gov. Reynolds signed Senate File 572 into law. The new statute prohibits the issuance or renewal of a health care facility license for any entity owned or controlled — directly or indirectly — by the governments of China, Russia or North Korea, or by citizens or instrumentalities of those countries. Following rule-making, additional guidance will be shared on enforcement procedures and potential implications for noncompliance. Providers should remain alert for updates as the process moves forward.
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IHCA encourages members to attend upcoming legislative town halls as a practical way to support grassroots advocacy and connect directly with elected officials. These local forums provide an opportunity to share real-world perspective on how legislation impacts long-term care and reinforce IHCA’s 2026 priorities. Upcoming events include town halls and legislative forums in Ankeny, Iowa City, Eldridge and more.
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) Long-Term Care Team and Prevention and Therapeutics Unit will hold a training webinar on the Respiratory Pathogens and Vaccination (RPV) Module next Thursday, April 30, at noon. This webinar will review optional reporting of therapeutic medications, updates to the person-level vaccination form for residents and the up-to-date definition for COVID-19 vaccines for quarters one and two of 2026.
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The Payroll Based Journal (PBJ) submission deadline for quarter two (Jan. 1, 2026 – March 31, 2026) is May 15, 2026, at 10:59 p.m. CDT. It is recommended that providers submit well before the deadline. Early submission allows time to identify and correct rejected files, resolve validation errors and resubmit if needed without the pressure of an expiring deadline.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services will host the 2026 Iowa Infection Prevention and Control Conference in Ames at the Gateway Hotel and Conference Center on Tuesday, May 5 and Wednesday, May 6. The mission of this conference is to support infection preventionists by focusing on trending topics, evidence-based best practices, resources for infection preventionists and the advancement of the infection prevention profession. New in 2026, this conference will have breakout sessions for long-term care professionals. Registration for this conference closes this Friday, April 24.
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IHCA Provider Solutions’ Enrollment Support service is helping facilities streamline the Medicaid application process, with early results showing approvals in an average of just 36 days from first contact. By managing the full application process, the service reduces administrative burden, speeds admissions and eligibility decisions, and improves financial stability. Participating providers report a smoother admissions workflow and less strain on staff, allowing teams to focus more on resident care.
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CMS released an updated Five-Star Quality Rating Program Technical User’s Guide, effective with the April 2026 refresh. In this update, the long-stay antipsychotic medication quality measure calculation will be updated to ensure that all residents with a history of schizophrenia are excluded, consistent with established specifications.
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The Iowa Total Care Long-Term Care Workforce Scholarship, made possible by Iowa Total Care, is for employees at IHCA member organizations enrolled or accepted in an accredited long-term care degree program. A total of nine $1,500 scholarships are available. Applications for this scholarship program are open now through May 31, 2026.
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Nominations are now open for the 2026 Provider Achieving Care Excellence (ACE) Awards – formerly the AHCA/NCAL Awards – with submissions due by Friday, May 29, at 10:59 p.m. CDT. This year’s program includes recognition opportunities such as the AHCA and NCAL Leader of the Year and Noble Caregiver Awards, along with the Mary K. Ousley Champion of Quality Award and the Jan Thayer Pioneer Award, honoring outstanding leaders and caregivers across skilled nursing and assisted living.
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National Skilled Nursing Care Week, May 10–16, 2026, celebrates the compassion, growth and connections that define skilled nursing care through this year’s theme, “Moments in Bloom.” IHCA is providing ready-to-use social media graphics and encouraging members to share photos of their celebrations for a chance to be featured. Facilities can also access additional planning tools and promotional resources from AHCA to enhance their week.
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The IHCA Foundation is excited to announce scholarship opportunities for individuals interested in pursuing or advancing a career in long-term care. Applications for the 2026–2027 academic year opened today, April 15, and will remain open through May 31. These scholarships will support both current long-term care professionals seeking to enhance their health care or leadership skills and high school seniors planning to pursue an education in long-term care.
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All nursing homes are required to report on annual influenza vaccination among health care personnel (HCP) by Monday, May 18, at 11:59 p.m. PST to meet CMS guidelines, as required by the Skilled Nursing Facility Quality Reporting Program for the 2025-2026 influenza season. The reporting period for the 2025-2026 influenza season is Oct. 1, 2025, through March 31, 2026. Facilities are only required to submit one report that covers the entire reporting period. Nursing homes that fail to report the required data by the deadline may lose 2% of their Medicare reimbursement for fiscal year 2027.
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Iowa’s Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing (DIAL) recently implemented a process change regarding the issuance of provider licensing certificates. With the new process, digital certificates will be posted in DIAL’s Health Facilities Database in the provider’s entity detail page in the ‘files’ folder. A hard copy will no longer be mailed to the facility/program.
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IHCA Provider Solutions’ Remote MDS Service offers expert support to complete MDS assessments and develop aligned care plans without the need to hire permanent staff. Designed as a temporary solution, it helps facilities maintain timely, accurate submissions while navigating staffing shortages. Providers also benefit from expert guidance on PDPM scoring and quality measures to support optimal reimbursement outcomes.
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IHCA encourages members to attend upcoming legislative town halls as a practical way to support grassroots advocacy and connect directly with elected officials. These local forums provide an opportunity to share real-world perspective on how legislation impacts long-term care and reinforce IHCA’s 2026 priorities. Upcoming events include town halls and legislative forums in Ankeny, Montrose, Eldridge and more.
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Prairie View Campus, an IHCA member, is turning a vacant memory care unit into a shared space with a childcare center, creating daily interaction between residents and children. The project aims to reduce isolation, boost resident engagement and meet a local childcare need — a creative approach IHCA is excited to see from its members.
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IHCA reports that HF 2680 – one of its top 2026 priorities – has passed the legislature and would streamline certified medication aide (CMA) requirements while creating a statewide online registry to help providers verify credentials and reduce fraud. In addition, Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has released a proposed SNF Value-Based Purchasing (VBP) model that ties a portion of Medicaid reimbursement to quality performance, though it would be implemented as an add-on and still requires federal approval and legislative funding. IHCA is continuing to review the proposal and will keep members updated on next steps.
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IHCA encourages members to attend upcoming legislative town halls as a practical way to support grassroots advocacy and connect directly with elected officials. These local forums provide an opportunity to share real-world perspective on how legislation impacts long-term care and reinforce IHCA’s 2026 priorities. Upcoming events include town halls and legislative forums in Ankeny, Waterloo, Malvern, Council Bluffs and more.
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CMS recently issued a number of rules, including the proposed rule for the skilled nursing facility (SNF) prospective payment system (PPS) for fiscal year (FY) 2027. The rule proposes a 2.4% increase to Medicare Part A rates in FY 2027. Additionally, the rule provides updates on the SNF Quality Reporting Program, Value-Based Purchasing and more.
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For a state to have its Medicaid plan approved by CMS, it must maintain a Preadmission Screening and Resident Review (PASRR) program that complies with the relevant federal laws and regulations. Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) will host PASRR trainings next week in Council Bluffs, Fort Dodge, Cedar Rapids and Des Moines.
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Late last week, CMS released an updated QSO-26-03-NH on surveyor guidance. The updated memo primarily clarifies provisions in the State Operations Manual, specifically chapters five and seven, introduced previously in a Jan. 30, 2026, memo. The updates will take effect on April 30, 2026.
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With the January 2026 Care Compare refresh, the Long-Stay Antipsychotic Quality Measure now functions very differently, requiring nursing home leaders to adjust their strategies accordingly. Under the revised specifications, CMS shifted the measure from relying solely on Minimum Data Set Section N data to a hybrid model that incorporates Medicare and Medicaid claims and Medicare Advantage encounter data. The intent is to close long-standing reporting gaps, particularly those related to medications administered outside of the MDS seven-day look-back window or diagnoses that were not fully supported by claims data.
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Veterans are highly represented in Iowa’s long-term care settings, yet many eligible residents and spouses miss out on valuable benefits due to complexity and lack of awareness. Free, credible assistance—especially through county veterans service officers and the Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs—can help residents access these earned benefits and improve financial and care outcomes. Understanding where free, credible assistance exists and integrating veterans’ benefit access into routine operations can support Iowa's veterans in receiving the benefits and aid they deserve.
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Registration is still open for the CMS Region Seven Fraud Awareness: Lunch and Learn Series. The first session of this four-part series launches tomorrow, April 9. Each 30-minute webinar features presentations from federal and state partners on a variety of important fraud-related topics.
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As a reminder, the Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Data Validation Process for the SNF Value-Based Purchasing (VBP) and Quality Reporting (QRP) programs is now in effect. Selected SNFs will be notified through their iQIES MDS 3.0 Provider Preview Report folder and must submit medical chart documentation for 10 MDS assessments within 45 days to avoid a 2% Medicare reimbursement penalty. Facilities are encouraged to begin checking their iQIES folders weekly and seek additional guidance from CMS, if needed.
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IHCA is proud to recognize our dedicated members who have been selected to serve as 2026 AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award Examiners. These professionals play an important role in advancing quality improvement across long-term and post-acute care nationwide.
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The Provider Achieving Care Excellence (ACE) Awards, formerly known as the AHCA/NCAL Awards, are now accepting nominations for the 2026 award cycle. The deadline to submit nominations is Friday, May 29, at 10:59 p.m.
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The University of Iowa Institute for Public Health Practice, Research and Policy is offering a reimbursement-based infection prevention scholarship program that helps to remove financial barriers for those pursuing recognized infection prevention and control certifications. The program is available for long-term-care facility employees seeking to receive Long-Term Care Certification for Infection Prevention (LTC-CIP) and for hospital employees seeking to receive Certification in Infection Control (CIC). The program will provide up to $1,100 to eligible employees to reimburse the cost of exam fees, as well as books and study programs needed to prepare for the exam.
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The IHCA Foundation will soon announce scholarship opportunities for individuals interested in pursuing or advancing a career in long-term care. Applications for the 2026–2027 academic year will open next Wednesday, April 15 and will remain open for applications through May 31. Full details, including eligibility requirements, application guidelines and submission materials, will be shared in next week’s Clinical and Executive Updates.
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently updated what it means to be “up to date” on COVID-19 vaccinations for both residents and health care staff. This change was first expected to apply only for the first quarter of 2026, but the CDC has now confirmed it will continue for the time being. An updated guidance document is expected to be posted on the National Healthcare Safety Network website in April.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) will host the 2026 Iowa Infection Prevention and Control Conference in Ames at the Gateway Hotel and Conference Center on Tuesday, May 5 and Wednesday, May 6. The mission of this conference is to support infection preventionists by focusing on trending topics, evidence-based best practices, resources for infection preventionists and the advancement of the infection prevention profession. New in 2026, this conference will have breakout sessions for long-term care professionals.
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Iowa Medicaid recently released its quarterly newsletter. Key areas of focus include upcoming monthly town hall dates, Iowa Wellness Plan Demonstration Annual Forum details, new Medicaid events, Hope and Opportunity in Many Environments (HOME) project updates, managed care plan updates, a new 'Flourish' magazine from the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and more.
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IHCA encourages members to attend upcoming legislative town halls as a practical way to support grassroots advocacy and connect directly with elected officials. These local forums provide an opportunity to share real-world perspective on how legislation impacts long-term care and reinforce IHCA’s 2026 priorities. Upcoming events include town halls and legislative forums in Ankeny, Altoona, Eldridge, Dubuque and more.
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IHCA’s Spring Conference, presented by BCG, kicks off this afternoon at The Meadows Events and Conference Center in Altoona. The opening general session will begin at 12:45 p.m. Over the next two days, attendees will take part in 30+ education sessions, connect with peers and industry partners and earn up to 10.0 contact hours across a range of timely topics. If you haven’t registered yet, there’s still time to join us.
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The March 2026 skilled nursing facility (SNF) survey trend report is now available in the IHCA Member Resource Center and highlights the most frequently cited tags and regulatory outcomes from Iowa SNFs. Sponsored by HPSI Purchasing Services, this member-only resource is a helpful tool for survey readiness and planning, with data largely reflecting surveys completed about two months prior to publication. The report also recognizes IHCA member facilities that achieved deficiency-free recertification surveys.
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The Fee for Service (FFS) Advance Beneficiary Notice of Noncoverage (ABN), Form CMS-R-131, has been updated. The updated form is effective now and expires March 2029. Providers may continue to use the expired version of the form until May 12, 2026, but must begin using the approved form no later than that date. This ABN is used in nursing facilities and other provider types to transfer potential financial liability for items/services (such as outpatient therapy) expected to be denied under Medicare Part B only.
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The IHCA Foundation will soon announce scholarship opportunities for individuals interested in pursuing or advancing a career in long-term care. Applications for the 2026–2027 academic year are expected to open in mid-April and will remain open through May 31.
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IHCA encourages members to attend upcoming legislative town halls as a practical way to support grassroots advocacy and connect directly with elected officials. These local forums provide an opportunity to share real-world perspective on how legislation impacts long-term care and reinforce IHCA’s 2026 priorities. Upcoming events include town halls and legislative forums in Ankeny, Waterloo, Eldridge, Oskaloosa, Iowa City and more.
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Enrollment Support from IHCA Provider Solutions handles Medicaid applications for your facility from start to finish. They can also help with insurance verification, admissions and financial-related issues. It’s a simple way to save staff time and stay on top of the process.
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The Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing (DIAL) will host its virtual joint training next Tuesday, March 24 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The session, titled, "Navigating Federal Abuse Regulation Compliance and Survey Trends," will cover federal abuse regulations, reporting and investigation requirements, common survey deficiencies, recent survey trends and practical strategies to ensure resident safety and compliance. Attendance is capped at 500 participants, so providers are encouraged to register in advance and gather staff to participate together.
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IHCA encourages members to attend upcoming legislative town halls as a practical way to support grassroots advocacy and connect directly with elected officials. These local forums provide an opportunity to share real-world perspective on how legislation impacts long-term care and reinforce IHCA’s 2026 priorities. Upcoming events include town halls and legislative forums in Ankeny, Iowa City, Eldridge, Newton, Hiawatha, Harlan and Clarinda.
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IHCA continues to review the Iowa Administrative Bulletin for potential impacts to long-term care providers. The March 4 issue includes a proposed rule from the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services outlining procedures for record check evaluations. These will be used to determine employment eligibility for individuals with certain criminal convictions or founded abuse findings in health care settings and related training programs.
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IHCA has introduced two new resources to help nursing facilities streamline admissions and improve communication with residents and families: an admission agreement template and a resident handbook template. The admission agreement outlines the rights and responsibilities of both the facility and resident, while the handbook explains facility policies, resident rights and daily life in plain language. Both resources are designed as customizable starting points that facilities can adapt to their specific operations and compliance needs.
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The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) is seeking qualified nurses to serve on item writing and review panels for the NCLEX-PN and NCLEX-RN exams, which are designed to assess the knowledge and skills needed for safe, entry-level nursing practice. The influence of post-acute nursing is essential to the applicability of the NCLEX exam for nurses. Participation allows nurses to influence the exam’s applicability, contribute to the profession, earn continuing education credit and network nationally and internationally. Volunteer opportunities are held in Chicago, with travel expenses covered.
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IHCA will host Life Safety, Fire Safety and Emergency Preparedness Seminars this April in Cedar Rapids (April 21) and Denison (April 22), providing long-term care professionals with practical guidance on regulatory expectations and proactive emergency preparedness. The interactive programs will cover Life Safety Code requirements, inspections, testing and maintenance, CMS emergency preparedness standards and the disaster management cycle, along with a panel discussion for questions and regulatory dialogue. The seminars offer 6.5 contact hours for nursing facility administrators, department heads and environmental services professionals.
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The Hospital and Healthcare Compensation Service (HCS) is currently collecting data for its annual Nursing Home Salary and Benefits Study, with questionnaires due May 11 and the final report scheduled for publication in July. The study provides comprehensive benchmarking on salaries, bonuses, hourly wages, staffing metrics and benefits across more than 100 long-term care positions, helping providers strengthen compensation and workforce strategies. Participation is free, and participants can purchase the final report at a discounted rate. HCS is also conducting a CCRC Salary and Benefits Study, with a participation deadline of April 20 and results expected in June.
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CMS recently updated the Long Stay Antipsychotic measure calculation to include claims data and identified some residents with schizophrenia who should have been excluded from the measure. CMS is correcting the calculation and plans to update the measure’s cut points used in Five-Star ratings. Updated data will appear in the April 22 Five-Star Provider Preview Reports in iQIES and on Care Compare beginning April 29.
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More than 50 long-term care leaders gathered at the Iowa Capitol last week for IHCA Day on the Hill, presented by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., to meet with legislators and advocate for the profession. Members shared how policy decisions impact residents, staff and communities while highlighting IHCA’s 2026 priorities, including workforce solutions, home- and community-based services and sustainable funding for long-term care. The event provided an important opportunity for policymakers to hear directly from providers delivering care across Iowa.
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The Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing (DIAL) will host its virtual joint training on March 24 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The session, titled, "Navigating Federal Abuse Regulation Compliance and Survey Trends," will cover federal abuse regulations, reporting and investigation requirements, common survey deficiencies, recent survey trends and practical strategies to ensure resident safety and compliance. Attendance is capped at 500 participants, so providers are encouraged to register in advance and gather staff to participate together.
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IHCA encourages members to attend upcoming legislative town halls as a practical way to support grassroots advocacy and connect directly with elected officials. These local forums provide an opportunity to share real-world perspective on how legislation impacts long-term care and reinforce IHCA’s 2026 priorities. Upcoming events include town halls and legislative forums in Burlington, Ankeny, Montrose, Iowa City, Waterloo, Eldridge, Council Bluffs, Denison, Cedar Rapids and Urbandale.
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IHCA Provider Solutions’ MDS and EHR Consulting Service helps providers strengthen documentation practices, improve accuracy and identify opportunities to enhance reimbursement. Through a comprehensive review of MDS processes and clinical documentation — along with personalized guidance from reimbursement experts — facilities receive practical recommendations to improve efficiency and maximize revenue under PDPM and Iowa’s case mix system.
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CNAonline, powered by Academic Platforms, is an IHCA endorsed product that offers online CNA courses. The program allows students to complete coursework online for greater flexibility while reducing costs related to classroom time, transportation and staffing. It also includes online instructor support and on-site lab and clinical training, helping employers attract students and monitor their progress.
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AHCA has launched the its National Skilled Nursing Care Week (NSNCW) planning guide, promotional toolkit and themed products to help facilities plan and promote celebrations taking place May 10–16, 2026. The materials provide ideas for organizing activities, engaging media and elected officials, using official graphics and sharing stories to highlight the week.
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CMS updated its skilled nursing facility (SNF) Provider Enrollment Guidance and FAQ to clarify that while submission deadlines for certain SNF revalidation applications are suspended, facilities that have not yet applied or had applications rejected must still submit them once a new deadline is announced. Medicare Administrative Contractors will continue processing pending applications, and SNFs must still respond within 30 days to any requests for additional information. CMS also emphasized that SNFs must provide all required enrollment data — not just section 1124(c) disclosures — or risk rejection or denial of their applications.
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The Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing (DIAL) will host its virtual joint training on March 24 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The session, titled, "Navigating Federal Abuse Regulation Compliance and Survey Trends," will cover federal abuse regulations, reporting and investigation requirements, common survey deficiencies, recent survey trends and practical strategies to ensure resident safety and compliance. Attendance is capped at 500 participants, and providers are encouraged to register in advance and gather staff to participate together.
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All skilled nursing facilities, assisted living communities and ID/DD centers must comply with OSHA’s Respiratory Protection Standard, which requires a formal respiratory protection program for employees exposed to airborne hazards. To help providers meet these requirements and reduce compliance risk, AHCA/NCAL and MCA Consulting have developed a comprehensive Respiratory Protection Plan training and toolkit that includes templates, required forms, fit testing guidance and employee training. AHCA/NCAL members can access this all-in-one compliance resource through a deeply discounted three-year subscription.
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IHCA encourages members to attend upcoming legislative town halls as a practical way to support grassroots advocacy and connect directly with elected officials. These local forums provide an opportunity to share real-world perspective on how legislation impacts long-term care and reinforce IHCA’s 2026 priorities. Upcoming events include town halls and legislative forums in Ankeny, Red Oak, Glenwood, Eldridge and Dubuque.
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As a reminder, the Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Data Validation Process for the SNF Value-Based Purchasing (VBP) and Quality Reporting (QRP) programs is now in effect. Selected SNFs will be notified through their iQIES MDS 3.0 Provider Preview Report folder and must submit medical chart documentation for 10 MDS assessments within 45 days to avoid a 2% Medicare reimbursement penalty. Facilities are encouraged to begin checking their iQIES folders weekly and seek additional guidance from CMS, if needed.
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Submissions are due tomorrow for activity professionals who want to enter for a chance to win a complimentary registration to IHCA’s Spring Conference, March 25–26 at Prairie Meadows in Altoona. To enter, participants are asked to reflect on the question “Why do I do this job?” through a short written reflection, video, presentation or visual design. Five winners will be selected by the IHCA Activity Advisory Council.
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Several key bills affecting long-term care providers and IHCA members have advanced in the 2026 Iowa legislative session, including measures related to Medicaid elderly waiver services, certified medication aides, claims payment and audits, guardianship, property tax, Certificate of Need and rural access. These proposals could impact operations, workforce capacity, reimbursement and access to care across skilled nursing, assisted living and other care settings. IHCA continues to monitor and engage with lawmakers to support policies that strengthen the workforce, improve provider sustainability and ensure high-quality care for Iowans.
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The Institute for Public Health Practice, Research and Policy (IPHPRP) at the University of Iowa is offering a reimbursement-based scholarship of up to $1,100 for long-term care and hospital professionals pursuing infection prevention certifications. The program supports those seeking the LTC-CIP or CIC credentials and reimburses exam fees, books and study materials after successful completion. This opportunity helps make certification more accessible for infection preventionists committed to strengthening patient safety and infection control expertise.
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IHCA’s Spring Conference, presented by BCG, will be held March 25–26 at The Meadows Events & Conference Center in Altoona. Sessions will focus on leadership, workforce, compliance, reimbursement and quality improvement, with up to 10.0 contact hours available for a range of care professionals. Limited rooms remain at Prairie Meadows Hotel, with an additional room block available at the Comfort Inn Altoona across the street.
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IHCA’s Day on the Hill on March 4 will bring long-term care leaders to the Iowa Capitol to meet directly with legislators and share how policy decisions impact residents, tenants, patients, staff and communities across Iowa. This event, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., plays a key role in advancing IHCA’s advocacy priorities during the legislative session. Please RSVP by this Friday, Feb. 27, to secure your spot.
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IHCA encourages members to attend upcoming legislative town halls as a practical way to support grassroots advocacy and connect directly with elected officials. These local forums provide an opportunity to share real-world perspective on how legislation impacts long-term care and reinforce IHCA’s 2026 priorities. Upcoming events include town halls and legislative forums in Waterloo, Iowa City, Eldridge, Council Bluffs, Wilton, Oskaloosa, Coralville, Bettendorf, Urbandale, DeWitt, Marion and Ankeny.
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The Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing (DIAL) is accepting nominations for the 2026 Governor’s Award for Quality Care, which recognizes nursing facilities, residential care facilities and intermediate care facilities for individuals with intellectual disabilities that demonstrate exceptional care and innovative efforts to enhance residents’ quality of life. Residents and family members may submit nominations by this Sunday, March 1, using DIAL’s paper or online forms; facilities may not nominate themselves. IHCA encourages providers to actively promote the nomination opportunity to residents and families to increase awareness and participation.
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Skilled nursing facilities, assisted living communities and ID/DD centers must maintain a respiratory protection program to comply with OSHA and CMS requirements, ensuring employee and resident safety from airborne hazards. AHCA/NCAL and MCA Consulting are offering a comprehensive Respiratory Protection Plan toolkit and training, including customizable templates, forms and videos to help providers achieve compliance. The resource is being offered via a discounted three-year subscription, giving facilities everything needed to meet federal respiratory protection and emergency preparedness standards.
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Discharge decisions in Iowa nursing facilities must comply with both federal CMS regulations and state requirements under Iowa Administrative Code, which includes specific notice, appeal and formatting standards. IHCA provides up-to-date, customizable discharge notice templates and regulatory guidance to help members avoid delays and enforcement actions. Members also have access to legal counsel and are encouraged to use the latest templates, as state officials have reported a trend of outdated form submissions.
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Iowa officials, including Gov. Kim Reynolds, announced the launch of the new Health Care Professional Incentive Program, backed by nearly $8 million in first-year funding to recruit and retain medical professionals in high-need and rural counties. The program offers income bonuses or federal student loan repayment to eligible health care providers who commit to working in underserved areas for up to five years full-time or seven years part-time. The initiative consolidates five previous state incentive programs into one streamlined effort to strengthen Iowa’s health care workforce pipeline and improve access to care. The application deadline is March 31, 2026.
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Senior living providers are invited to participate in the 2025 State of Seniors Housing Annual Survey, which will collect data on independent living, assisted living, nursing facilities and continuing care retirement communities, and will compile the results into a report. Participating organizations will receive a complimentary copy of the report, which includes financial results, staffing metrics, resident turnover, and other key performance indicators. Completed surveys are due by March 31, 2026.
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CMS has updated the MLN Booklet titled, "Medicare Billing: CMS 1450 & 837I." The updated guidance has added COVID-19 vaccinations to its roster billing options. More information about roster billing can be found on the CMS website.
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On February 4, 2026, CMS updated its Survey Resource folder, including revisions to several Critical Element Pathways (CEPs). Notably, CEP CMS-20081 for Respiratory Care was clarified to differentiate no smoking sign requirements for smoking versus non-smoking facilities. Nursing homes are advised to review and update their policies and staff education to comply with the revised guidance.
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Livanta’s BFCC-QIO program rebranded to Commence Health in August 2025, and providers are encouraged to update internal materials and beneficiary notices to reflect the new name where possible. While branding, emails and communications have changed, contracts, review processes, contact numbers and existing forms remain valid, and operations continue as before under the same Medicare agreement.
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IHCA’s Day on the Hill on March 4 will bring long-term care leaders to the Iowa Capitol to meet directly with legislators and share how policy decisions impact residents, tenants, patients, staff and communities across Iowa. This event, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., plays a key role in advancing IHCA’s advocacy priorities during the legislative session. Members are encouraged to RSVP by Feb. 27 and review IHCA’s 2026 Legislative + Policy Agenda in advance.
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IHCA encourages members to attend upcoming legislative town halls as a practical way to support grassroots advocacy and connect directly with elected officials. These local forums provide an opportunity to share real-world perspective on how legislation impacts long-term care and reinforce IHCA’s 2026 priorities. Upcoming events include town halls and legislative forums in Winterset, Ankeny, Murray, Webster City, Fairfield, Spencer, Fredericksburg, Newton, Eldridge, Cedar Rapids, Harlan, Allison, Dubuque, Waterloo and Iowa City.
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Enrollment Support from IHCA Provider Solutions helps facilities manage Medicaid applications from start to finish while strengthening the broader admissions and revenue-cycle process. In addition to Medicaid enrollment support, members can access tools and optional services for payor verification, admissions, compliance and legal assistance to address resident financial matters and recover outstanding balances.
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The Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing (DIAL) is accepting nominations for the 2026 Governor’s Award for Quality Care, which recognizes nursing facilities, residential care facilities and intermediate care facilities for individuals with intellectual disabilities that demonstrate exceptional care and innovative efforts to enhance residents’ quality of life. Residents and family members may submit nominations by March 1, 2026, using DIAL’s paper or online forms; facilities may not nominate themselves. IHCA encourages providers to actively promote the nomination opportunity to residents and families to increase awareness and participation.
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Administrators are encouraged to share an opportunity with their activity professionals to win one of five complimentary registrations to IHCA’s Spring Conference, March 25–26 in Altoona. To enter, activity professionals will submit a brief reflection — in writing, video, slides or a visual format — answering the question, “Why do I do this job?” Submissions are due March 5, and winners will be selected by the IHCA Activity Professionals Advisory Council.
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IHCA Provider Solutions’ Remote MDS Service helps facilities manage staffing gaps by having expert consultants complete MDS assessments remotely and develop aligned care plans. The service supports timely, accurate submissions, provides PDPM and quality measure guidance and can include on-site support when needed. Facilities gain flexible, expert assistance designed to protect reimbursement and maintain compliance during periods of transition.
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The CDC has launched its Sepsis Prevention Assessment Tool (SPAT) for Nursing Homes to help providers address the high risk of sepsis among residents by strengthening infection prevention and early recognition practices. The tool guides facilities in assessing policies, staff training and clinical workflows to identify gaps and prioritize improvements. Additional resources are included to support implementation and help nursing homes improve compliance, care quality and resident outcomes.
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CMS issued a comprehensive memo revising chapters 5 and 7 of the State Operations Manual, outlining updates to survey and enforcement processes that AHCA is currently reviewing. Initial highlights include improved timelines and transparency for Informal Dispute Resolutions and expanded use of offsite desk reviews for less serious deficiencies. While these changes offer some operational relief, concerns remain about the inclusion of expanded Civil Monetary Penalty enforcement, which AHCA plans to continue addressing through advocacy for solutions and new rulemaking.
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IHCA is monitoring the Jan. 21 and Feb. 4 Iowa Administrative Bulletin for items that may impact members, with several adopted rule updates from the Department of Inspections and Appeals tied to the state’s Red Tape Review (Executive Order 10). The updates include repromulgated chapters and new standards for health care facility audits, elder group homes, assisted living programs and adult day services, specifically addressing certification processes, incident investigations and medication handling.
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Iowa Medicaid and Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) have announced the FFY 2025 SUPPORT Act reporting survey, which collects data on providers’ compliance with required Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) checks before prescribing controlled substances to most Medicaid members. The survey supports Iowa’s annual Medicaid Drug Utilization Review reporting to CMS and applies to prescribing practices from October 2024 through September 2025. Providers must complete the survey by March 31, 2026.
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The Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing (DIAL) is accepting nominations for the 2026 Governor’s Award for Quality Care, which recognizes nursing facilities, residential care facilities and intermediate care facilities for individuals with intellectual disabilities that demonstrate exceptional care and innovative efforts to enhance residents’ quality of life. Residents and family members may submit nominations by March 1, 2026, using DIAL’s paper or online forms; facilities may not nominate themselves. IHCA encourages providers to actively promote the nomination opportunity to residents and families to increase awareness and participation.
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IHCA’s Day on the Hill on March 4 will bring long-term care leaders to the Iowa Capitol to meet directly with legislators and share how policy decisions impact residents, tenants, patients, staff and communities across Iowa. This event, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., plays a key role in advancing IHCA’s advocacy priorities during the legislative session. Members are encouraged to RSVP by Feb. 27 and review IHCA’s 2026 Legislative + Policy Agenda in advance.
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IHCA encourages members to attend upcoming legislative town halls as a practical way to support grassroots advocacy and connect directly with elected officials. These local forums provide an opportunity to share real-world perspective on how legislation impacts long-term care and reinforce IHCA’s 2026 priorities. Upcoming events include town halls and legislative forums in Ankeny, Forest City, Waterloo, Roland, Denver, Algona, Denison, Davenport and Parkersburg.
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IHCA’s Infection Prevention and Control Series next Tuesday and Wednesday will focus on foundational and applied infection prevention strategies for long-term care settings. This two-day virtual program offers flexible registration options and will feature practical, interactive learning led by infection prevention expert Missy Travis. The series is approved for up to 8.0 contact hours for nurses, nursing facility administrators, department heads and environmental services professionals. Registration grants live access only — the program will not be recorded.
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The CDC has updated the definition of “up to date” for COVID-19 vaccinations for residents and health care personnel, affecting National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) reporting beginning Quarter 1, 2026. The revised criteria varies by age and vaccine timing, with different requirements for individuals 65 years of age and above versus those under 65 years of age. Nursing homes should immediately apply this definition for reporting and may revise previously submitted NHSN data for the quarter, if needed.
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CMS has significantly increased its regulatory focus on falls in nursing homes through expanded MDS fall definitions, revised quality measures and new Special Focus Facility (SFF) selection criteria that now emphasize fall prevalence. These changes heighten the importance of accurate documentation, prevention programs and data use, positioning nurse leaders as key drivers of compliance and resident safety. Proactive fall investigation, prevention and transparent use of data are essential to improving outcomes and reducing regulatory risk.
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IHCA’s Medicare Review – 2026 Update and Operational Reality, taking place next Wednesday, will focus on Medicare and Medicare Advantage coverage, compliance and reimbursement challenges facing long-term care providers in 2026. This virtual program will feature practical, real-world guidance on Medicare rules, documentation and operational strategies, and is approved for 3.5 contact hours for nursing facility administrators, nurses and social services professionals. A recorded on-demand option will be available after the live event.
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Registration is now open for IHCA’s Spring Conference, presented by BCG, taking place March 25–26 in Altoona. This two-day event will offer practical, Iowa-specific education across leadership, workforce, compliance, reimbursement and quality, with up to 10.0 contact hours available for a wide range of long-term care professionals. The discounted hotel room rate is available through Feb. 27.
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The SING system received an overdue upgrade, going live on Jan. 25, with the old platform set to sunset on Feb. 28. Members must use the new SING portal for results, which are only available for 30 days, and access requires setting up an OKTA account through their agency admin. The old system remains available only for retrieving past submissions, and organizations are advised to download all necessary results before the deadline.
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Nursing facility leaders face constant risk when incidents involve resident harm, making swift, well-coordinated action critical if immediate jeopardy (IJ) is identified. Because IJ is not always obvious, leaders must quickly assess compliance and implement corrective actions across the entire facility, not just for the affected resident. The Compliance Store provides customizable immediate jeopardy removal plan templates to support leaders before or during surveys and investigations. As a reminder, all IHCA skilled nursing facility members receive full access to The Compliance Store as part of their IHCA membership.
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CMS updated the Special Focus Facility (SFF) Program to emphasize the prevalence of falls among residents as the main selection criterion, replacing staffing considerations. Survey frequency is adjusted to at least twice annually, with Life Safety Code and Emergency Preparedness surveys conducted at least annually or as determined by CMS or the state. Providers can review falls data in iQIES, access AHCA/NCAL’s Fall Prevention Guide, and are encouraged to check the Preview Report folder about a week before Nursing Home Care Compare updates.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Healthcare Associated Infections (HAI) team hosts monthly open office hours to provide long-term care staff with an open forum to ask questions about infection prevention and control. Held on the first Tuesday of each month at noon CST, the 30-minute sessions include brief updates followed by the opportunity for questions. These sessions are open to all long-term care facility staff and are not limited to any specific disease or condition. The next office hours meeting will take place on March 3.
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All skilled nursing facilities, assisted living communities and ID/DD centers must comply with OSHA’s Respiratory Protection Standard, which requires a formal respiratory protection program for employees exposed to airborne hazards. To help providers meet these requirements and reduce compliance risk, AHCA/NCAL and MCA Consulting have developed a comprehensive Respiratory Protection Plan training and toolkit that includes templates, required forms, fit testing guidance and employee training. AHCA/NCAL members can access this all-in-one compliance resource through a deeply discounted three-year subscription.
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IHCA’s Day on the Hill on March 4 will bring long-term care leaders to the Iowa Capitol to meet directly with legislators and share how policy decisions impact residents, tenants, patients, staff and communities across Iowa. This event, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., plays a key role in advancing IHCA’s advocacy priorities during the legislative session. Members are encouraged to RSVP by Feb. 27 and review IHCA’s 2026 Legislative + Policy Agenda in advance.
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IHCA encourages members to attend upcoming legislative town halls as a practical way to support grassroots advocacy and connect directly with elected officials. These local forums provide an opportunity to share real-world perspective on how legislation impacts long-term care and reinforce IHCA’s 2026 priorities. Upcoming events include town halls and legislative forums in Ankeny, Sumner, Emmetsburg, Ida Grove, Dubuque, Storm Lake and Nashua.
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The Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Data Validation Process for the SNF Value-Based Purchasing (VBP) and Quality Reporting (QRP) programs is now in effect. Selected SNFs will be notified through their iQIES MDS 3.0 Provider Preview Report folder and must submit medical chart documentation for 10 MDS assessments within 45 days to avoid a 2% Medicare reimbursement penalty. Facilities are encouraged to begin checking their iQIES folders weekly and seek additional guidance from CMS, if needed.
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Iowa has ranked third in the nation for AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award applications in 2026, with IHCA members submitting 137 total applications – including the most Bronze applications and the second most Silver applications of any state. That represents a 38% increase over last year, underscoring Iowa providers’ strong commitment to quality improvement. Congratulations to all IHCA members who submitted an application this year – your dedication to continuous improvement and excellence continues to set Iowa apart.
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The Iowa Insurance Division’s Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) reminds Iowans of upcoming Medicare deadlines, including the March 31, 2026, deadline to make changes during the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period. Iowans affected by cancelled Medicare Advantage or Part D plans have until Feb. 28, 2026, to enroll in new coverage, with some eligible for guaranteed issue Medigap policies. SHIIP offers free, confidential counseling to help beneficiaries understand their options and make informed decisions.
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The Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Provider Preview Reports have been updated and include performance data that will be publicly reported on Medicare’s Compare tool and the CMS Provider Data Catalog during the April 2026 refresh. The reports reflect quality measure data from various reporting periods, and providers have until Feb. 14, 2026, to review their information and request a CMS review if they believe scores are inaccurate. Only corrections made before the final data submission deadline will be reflected in the publicly reported data.
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The National Association of Long-Term Care Administrator Boards (NAB) is requesting input from nursing home administrators and senior living leaders through its 2025–26 Professional Practice Analysis survey, which will inform updates to the 2026 NAB Domains of Practice. The anonymous survey takes about 45 minutes to complete, is due by this Friday, Feb. 6, and offers 0.75 CE credits and prize drawings for participants who provide their NAB ID.
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IHCA’s Infection Prevention and Control Series on Feb. 17–18 will focus on foundational and applied infection prevention strategies for long-term care settings. This live, two-day virtual program offers flexible registration options and will feature practical, interactive learning led by infection prevention expert Missy Travis. The series is approved for up to 8.0 contact hours for nurses, nursing facility administrators, department heads and environmental services professionals.
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IHCA is offering MDS Principles – A Comprehensive Introduction to MDS 3.0, a live virtual program on Feb. 25-26 for MDS coordinators, NACs and staff new to MDS. The program covers all MDS 3.0 sections, Care Area Assessments, care planning, OBRA/PPS scheduling and PDPM, providing practical guidance for accurate assessments, proper reimbursement and quality care. The virtual event is approved for 12.0 contact hours and will not be recorded.
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IHCA’s Frontline Workforce Solutions on Feb. 26 will focus on retention, supervision and staffing strategies for frontline staff and the supervisors who support them. This virtual program will feature practical, experience-driven approaches from long-term care peers and leaders, and is approved for 2.5 contact hours for nurses, nursing facility administrators, assisted living managers, department heads and activity professionals. A recorded on-demand option will be available after the live event.
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IHCA’s DON Fundamentals – A Playbook for New Nurse Leaders on March 2–3, 2026, provides new directors of nursing (DONs) and nurse leaders with practical tools to excel in leadership, compliance and human resource management. The program, sponsored by McKesson and Right Dose, a Guardian Pharmacy, will offer expert-led sessions on time management, risk mitigation, survey preparedness and quality improvement, tailored specifically to the unique challenges of nursing facility leadership. This hybrid event is approved for 10.0 contact hours and will not be recorded.
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IHCA’s April LPN-IV Certification Course will begin online on Wednesday, April 1. This course is designed to prepare licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to perform procedures related to the expanded scope of IV therapy in a licensed hospital or licensed skilled nursing facility as identified in 655 IAC 6.5(3) and is approved for 43.0 contact hours for LPNs. Please note in-person lab days will take place in Cedar Rapids on April 14 and April 30.
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Iowa Medicaid and Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) announced that the Personal Needs allowance and supplemental payments for individuals in facilities have increased from $50 to $55 per month, effective retroactively to Aug. 1, 2025. Ongoing payments reflecting the $5 increase will begin with the March 2026 benefit, while retroactive adjustments for August 2025 through February 2026 will be issued in early February 2026. Individuals who do not receive the payment can contact the Facility and Waiver Eligibility Team for assistance.
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CMS has begun the Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Value-Based Purchasing data validation process and has started sending selection notifications to some facilities through their iQIES Provider Preview Report folders. The process checks the accuracy of MDS-based quality measures used in the SNF Value-Based Purchasing and Quality Reporting Program. Selected SNFs must regularly monitor iQIES, identify points of contact within five business days and submit required medical record documentation within 45 calendar days. Documentation must be submitted properly following CMS instructions.
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CMS has released updated SNF Provider Preview Reports in iQIES, showing quality measure scores that will appear on Nursing Home Care Compare in April 2026. The reports use data from multiple time periods, including MDS submissions from Quarter 3, 2024 through Quarter 2, 2025, claims data from Quarter 4, 2022 through Quarter 3, 2024 and infection and vaccination measures from late 2023 through 2025, including a new COVID-19 resident vaccination measure based on Quarter 4, 2024 data. Nursing homes must review and correct their data by Feb. 14, 2026, as only timely updates will be reflected on Nursing Home Care Compare.
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IHCA is offering MDS Principles – A Comprehensive Introduction to MDS 3.0, a live virtual program on Feb. 25-26 for MDS coordinators, NACs and staff new to MDS. The program covers all MDS 3.0 sections, Care Area Assessments, care planning, OBRA/PPS scheduling and PDPM, providing practical guidance for accurate assessments, proper reimbursement and quality care. The virtual event is approved for 12.0 contact hours and will not be recorded.
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AHCA/NCAL has extended the 2026 National Quality Award application deadline to tomorrow, Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. CST. Members are reminded to submit all applications and payments through the Quality Award Portal and to verify submission status via a confirmation email or by checking the portal. Support resources and the AHCA Quality Award team are available for assistance.
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CMS has released an updated Technical Users’ Guide for the Nursing Home Five-Star Quality Rating System. Beginning with the January 2026 refresh, CMS will replace the current long-stay antipsychotic quality measure with a revised version that uses Medicare and Medicaid claims and Medicare Advantage encounter data in addition to MDS data. The new measure will use decile-based scoring cut points based on provider performance data from Quarter 3, 2024 through Quarter 2, 2025, with details outlined in CMS Memorandum QSO-25-20-NH Revised.
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OSHA has two key injury and illness recordkeeping compliance deadlines for 2026. Employers must post the OSHA Form 300A (Summary of 2025 Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses) by Feb. 1, 2026, and keep it posted through April 30, 2026. Required data must also be submitted electronically through OSHA’s Injury Tracking Application by March 2, 2026, depending on establishment size and industry. OSHA and AHCA/NCAL resources are available to help long-term care providers determine coverage and complete recordkeeping and reporting requirements.
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CMS has launched a new online form that allows providers to submit beneficiary-focused complaints about Medicare Advantage (MA) plans directly to CMS. Submitted complaints are routed through the CMS Health Plan Management System for review and tracking, without being sent to the MA plans themselves. AHCA supports this new provider-initiated complaint process and encourages providers to use it to report ongoing access and care-delivery issues, helping CMS identify systemic problems and improve plan oversight.
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The Compliance Store is now included with IHCA membership for skilled nursing facilities, offering unlimited, no-cost access to compliance tools, templates and regulatory resources. Facility administrators can log in using their email address, add staff accounts with no user limits and watch an on-demand demo to see how the platform works day to day. Support and login assistance are available through The Compliance Store’s dedicated account team.
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AHCA has released a new tip sheet to help skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) troubleshoot Medicare Provider Enrollment issues following the indefinite suspension of mandatory off-cycle SNF revalidations for providers that had not submitted Form CMS-855A. The resource outlines enrollment requirements, typical timelines, who to contact for specific issues and how to escalate concerns if problems aren’t resolved promptly. Additionally, AHCA will host SNF Provider Enrollment troubleshooting office hours this Friday, Jan. 23 at 1:00 p.m. CST.
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CMS is transitioning the CLIA program to a fully electronic system, meaning nursing homes that perform lab testing must switch to paperless notifications, fee coupons and certificates by March 1, 2026. After that date, paper CLIA fee coupons and paper certificates will no longer be issued (with exceptions for CLIA-exempt states or state licensure). Facilities can opt in by notifying their state agency in writing or by completing the CMS-116 form to receive electronic notifications and certificates via email.
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CMS has reported a known issue in the iQIES MDS 3.0 Resident-Level Quality Measure Report following the addition of the revised Percent of Long-Stay Residents Who Received an Antipsychotic Medication measure. When users run the report with an End Date on or after Oct. 1, 2025, the report footnote incorrectly displays the three-month reporting period, even though the data shown reflects Q3 2025 (07/01/2025–09/30/2025). CMS posted an expected resolution date of Jan. 20, 2026.
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CDC Project Firstline is hosting a webinar next Tuesday, Jan. 27 at noon CST with CDC experts and the American Medical Association on preventing and responding to respiratory virus outbreaks in long-term care settings. The session will cover illness recognition, testing, treatment, vaccination, infection control and practical resources for staff, residents and families. Registration is open, and participants can submit questions in advance.
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IHCA’s Infection Prevention and Control Series on Feb. 17–18 will focus on foundational and applied infection prevention strategies for long-term care settings. This live, two-day virtual program offers flexible registration options and will feature practical, interactive learning led by infection prevention expert Missy Travis. The series is approved for up to 8.0 contact hours for nurses, nursing facility administrators, department heads and environmental services professionals.
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IHCA’s Infection Prevention and Control Series on Feb. 17–18 will focus on foundational and applied infection prevention strategies for long-term care settings. This live, two-day virtual program offers flexible registration options and will feature practical, interactive learning led by infection prevention expert Missy Travis. The series is approved for up to 8.0 contact hours for nurses, nursing facility administrators, department heads and environmental services professionals.
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IHCA’s Medicare Review – 2026 Update and Operational Reality on Feb. 11 will focus on Medicare and Medicare Advantage coverage, compliance and reimbursement challenges facing long-term care providers in 2026. This virtual program will feature practical, real-world guidance on Medicare rules, documentation and operational strategies, and is approved for 3.5 contact hours for nursing facility administrators, nurses and social services professionals. A recorded on-demand option will be available after the live event.
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IHCA’s Medicare Review – 2026 Update and Operational Reality on Feb. 11 will focus on Medicare and Medicare Advantage coverage, compliance and reimbursement challenges facing long-term care providers in 2026. This virtual program will feature practical, real-world guidance on Medicare rules, documentation and operational strategies, and is approved for 3.5 contact hours for nursing facility administrators, nurses and social services professionals. A recorded on-demand option will be available after the live event.
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The Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Provider Preview Reports have been updated and are now available for provider review. These reports include quality measure performance scores that will be publicly reported on Medicare.gov’s Compare tool and the Provider Data Catalog during the April 2026 refresh. The data reflect multiple reporting periods across assessment, vaccination, claims-based and healthcare-associated infection measures. Providers have until Feb. 14, 2026 to review their reports and request a CMS review if they believe the displayed scores are inaccurate. Only corrections made to underlying assessment data prior to the final submission deadline will be reflected in publicly reported data. Reports can be accessed through iQIES, and assistance is available through the iQIES Service Center or CMS SNF QRP support.
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Retirement facilities in Iowa that require an entrance fee prior to a resident’s move-in, including continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs), are required to register annually with the Iowa Insurance Division. Registration or renewal must be completed by March 1, 2026 and must comply with Iowa Code Chapter 523D and Iowa Administrative Code Chapter 191-102, including the use of required disclosures and contracts. Both new and returning filers must submit the appropriate filing forms and pay the $100 state filing fee, along with any additional processing fees assessed by State Based Systems (SBS). Early submission is encouraged to avoid delays, and assistance is available through the Iowa Insurance Division or the SBS Help Desk.
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The January 2026 skilled nursing facility (SNF) survey trend report is now available in the IHCA Member Resource Center and highlights the most frequently cited tags and regulatory outcomes from Iowa skilled nursing facilities. Sponsored by HPSI Purchasing Services, this member-only resource is a helpful tool for survey readiness and planning, with data largely reflecting surveys completed about two months prior to publication. The report also recognizes IHCA member facilities that achieved deficiency-free recertification surveys.
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AHCA/NCAL 2026 National Quality Award applications are due tomorrow, Thursday, Jan. 22, 2026, by 7:00 p.m. CST, with no exceptions for late submissions. Facilities can still apply even if they did not submit an Intent to Apply, and participation helps strengthen performance, improve outcomes and recognize your team’s commitment to quality.
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IHCA and The Compliance Store hosted a live demo earlier today to introduce IHCA’s newest member benefit for skilled nursing facility (SNF) members: full access to The Compliance Store — now included with your IHCA membership dues at no additional cost. If you weren’t able to attend live or want to share the walkthrough with your team, a recorded, on-demand demo will be posted tomorrow, Jan. 22, on IHCA’s Compliance Store webpage and will be available for members to access anytime.
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The University of Iowa will host four-hour, discussion-based MDRO tabletop exercises this spring to help Iowa health care facilities strengthen emergency response plans and meet CMS emergency preparedness requirements. These sessions will focus on identifying and responding to multidrug-resistant organism threats, with special emphasis on Candida auris and CPO. Upcoming events will be held April 29 in Webster City, April 30 in Red Oak and May 13 in Pella.
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Enrollment Support from IHCA Provider Solutions helps member facilities streamline Medicaid applications by managing the process start to finish — at no out-of-pocket cost to the facility. Early results show an average of just 36 days from first family contact to Medicaid approval, helping reduce administrative burden, speed up admissions decisions and protect cash flow. Participating facilities report an impactful difference with fewer delays and a better experience for residents and families.
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Iowa’s latest Respiratory Virus Surveillance Report shows increasing activity of influenza (both A and B), RSV and COVID-19 statewide as of mid-December 2025, with continued cases in long-term care settings. These trends signal a heightened risk of outbreaks in nursing homes, requiring prompt use of established infection prevention and control measures. Leaders are urged to strengthen vaccination programs, ensure adequate PPE and testing supplies, enhance surveillance and masking when community transmission rises, educate residents, staff and visitors and improve ventilation. Facilities must comply with updated CDC guidance and meet both Iowa HHS and federal CMS reporting requirements through NHSN. Proactive preparedness, vigilant monitoring and clear reporting are essential to protecting residents and staff during this period of elevated respiratory illness activity.
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IHCA is monitoring the Dec. 24 and Jan. 7 Iowa Administrative Bulletin for items that may impact members, with several newly noticed Iowa Medicaid and waiver-related rule updates tied to the state’s Red Tape Review (Executive Order 10). The updates include proposed changes to waiver services, payment methods, provider policies and conditions of participation, managed care and covered services, along with an adopted rule increasing the State Supplementary Assistance personal needs allowance from $50 to $55.
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Effective July 2025, CMS transitioned its survey and certification data infrastructure to the new cloud-based Internet Quality Improvement and Evaluation System (iQIES). During this transition, some data discrepancies were identified. As a result, some facilities may notice inconsistencies in their Nursing Home Care Compare data, including an apparent increase in complaint allegations due to the removal of the “substantiated” complaint filter. These figures do not necessarily reflect the actual number of validated quality concerns. CMS is actively working to address these issues and plans to remove the complaint allegation and facility-reported incident counts from Nursing Home Care Compare. Facilities are encouraged to review their Nursing Home Care Compare profiles, report any discrepancies and inform relevant staff of these updates.
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The first Payroll Based Journal (PBJ) deadline of the year is approaching, with providers required to submit PBJ data for Oct. 1–Dec. 31, 2025 by Feb. 14, 2026. Key reminders include using unique employee IDs, properly linking ID changes, deducting 30 minutes for every eight hours worked and submitting early to review PBJ CASPER reports and correct any errors before the deadline. To help members stay compliant and survey-ready, IHCA’s two-part virtual PBJ Compliance Workshop begins tomorrow, Jan. 15, and is approved for 2.0 contact hours for nurses and administrators.
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CMS will begin validating Minimum Data Set (MDS) data for the Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Value-Based Purchasing and Quality Reporting Programs on Jan. 1, 2026, with provider notifications starting mid-January 2026. SNF providers will be randomly selected, and selection notices will be posted in the MDS 3.0 Provider Preview Reports folders within iQIES. This data validation process is intended to ensure the accuracy of MDS-based quality measures, as required by federal law, and will apply beginning with the FY 2027 program year/FY 2025 performance period. Providers should monitor their iQIES folders for notifications and review available CMS training resources for additional guidance.
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The 2026 Iowa legislative session is underway, and IHCA is advocating at the Capitol for policies that support long-term care providers across the state. IHCA’s priorities include strengthening the CNA and CMA workforce pipeline, improving access to care through a more sustainable Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Elderly Waiver and securing funding to support critical long-term care services. To connect directly with legislators on these issues, mark your calendar for IHCA Day on the Hill, happening March 4, 2026.
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IHCA’s Frontline Workforce Solutions on Feb. 26 will focus on retention, supervision and staffing strategies for frontline staff and the supervisors who support them. This virtual program will feature practical, experience-driven approaches from long-term care peers and leaders, and is approved for 2.5 contact hours for nurses, nursing facility administrators, assisted living managers, department heads and activity professionals. A recorded on-demand option will be available after the live event.
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IHCA’s Frontline Workforce Solutions on Feb. 26 will focus on retention, supervision and staffing strategies for frontline staff and the supervisors who support them. This virtual program will feature practical, experience-driven approaches from long-term care peers and leaders, and is approved for 2.5 contact hours for nurses, nursing facility administrators, assisted living managers, department heads and activity professionals. A recorded on-demand option will be available after the live event.
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As we kick off 2026, IHCA President and CEO Brent Willett reminds members that work in long-term care isn’t a tragedy — it’s a calling that requires resilience, skill and professionalism. He reaffirms IHCA’s commitment to elevating the work of providers and advocating for the fairness, respect and recognition the profession has earned.
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MDS Support helps IHCA nursing facility members improve MDS accuracy, timeliness and efficiency while supporting compliance and protecting reimbursement. Facilities can choose Remote MDS for short-term staffing support with assessments completed by clinical experts, or MDS + EHR Consulting to strengthen their current workflow through process evaluation and customized improvement recommendations.
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IHCA is offering skilled nursing facility (SNF) members full, complimentary access to The Compliance Store, a comprehensive compliance platform designed for long-term care providers. The platform includes customizable policies, survey-preparation tools and up-to-date regulatory resources to support day-to-day compliance. Clinical staff may request access through their administrator, and a live demo will be held next Wednesday, Jan. 21 with an on-demand recording available afterward.
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IHCA nursing facility members now have complimentary access to The Compliance Store, a comprehensive compliance platform with customizable policies, regulatory tools and survey-prep resources. Facility administrators should have received an email last week from The Compliance Store with login instructions, and administrators can request additional staff accounts as needed. IHCA and The Compliance Store will also host a live demo webinar next Wednesday, Jan. 21, with an on-demand recording available afterward.
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IHCA's webinar next Wednesday, titled, “State and Federal Regulations – What is the Activity Director’s Responsibility?” will examine how evolving state and federal regulations place activity directors at the center of resident-centered care and facility compliance. The session will cover federal F-tags, state licensure requirements, the activity director’s role in MDS assessments, care planning, staff management and survey preparedness. This webinar is approved for 1.0 contact hour for activity professionals and administrators.
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IHCA's webinar titled “State and Federal Regulations – What is the Activity Director’s Responsibility?” examines how evolving state and federal regulations place activity directors at the center of resident-centered care and facility compliance and is now available on-demand. The session covers federal F-tags, state licensure requirements, the activity director’s role in MDS assessments, care planning, staff management and survey preparedness. This webinar is approved for 1.0 contact hour for activity professionals and administrators.
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IHCA’s February LPN-IV Certification Course will begin online on Monday, Jan. 26. This course is designed to prepare licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to perform procedures related to the expanded scope of IV therapy in a licensed hospital or licensed skilled nursing facility as identified in 655 IAC 6.5(3) and is approved for 43.0 contact hours for LPNs. Please note in-person lab days will take place in West Des Moines on Feb. 10 and Feb. 25.
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IHCA’s two-part virtual Payroll-Based Journal (PBJ) Compliance Workshop begins tomorrow, Jan. 15, and is designed to strengthen PBJ knowledge and survey readiness amid increased regulatory scrutiny. The series includes an overview session followed by a hands-on workshop on Jan. 29 where participants review their own PBJ reports and documentation with expert guidance to build confidence in responding to surveyors. The workshop is approved for 2.0 contact hours for nurses and administrators.
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Applications for the 2026 National Quality Award Program are due by next Thursday, Jan. 22, at 7:00 p.m. CST. Organizations may still apply even if they did not submit an intent to apply. Participation in the National Quality Award Program helps providers identify strengths and opportunities for improvement, support better outcomes for residents and staff and gain recognition as leaders in long-term and post-acute care. Organizations are encouraged to complete and submit their applications through the Quality Award Portal ahead of the deadline to avoid technical or internal delays.
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The National Association of Long-Term Care Administrator Boards (NAB) is requesting input from nursing home administrators and senior living leaders through its 2025–26 Professional Practice Analysis survey, which will inform updates to the 2026 NAB Domains of Practice. The anonymous survey takes about 45 minutes to complete, is due by Feb. 6, and offers 0.75 CE credits and prize drawings for participants who provide their NAB ID.
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The Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing (DIAL) is accepting nominations for the 2026 Governor’s Award for Quality Care, which recognizes nursing facilities, residential care facilities and intermediate care facilities for individuals with intellectual disabilities that demonstrate exceptional care and innovative efforts to enhance residents’ quality of life. Residents and family members may submit nominations by March 1, 2026, using DIAL’s paper or online forms; facilities may not nominate themselves. IHCA encourages providers to actively promote the nomination opportunity to residents and families to increase awareness and participation.
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Effective Jan. 1, 2026, all Wellcare (Medicare) prior authorization requests for certain services will transition from Evolent to Wellcare, with no changes to Iowa Total Care (Medicaid) processes. Affected services include advanced and cardiac imaging, therapies, select surgeries, oncology services and interventional pain management, with all requests required to be submitted through Wellcare’s secure provider portal.
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Written and sponsored by Melinda Renshaw, RN-RAC-CTA of Renshaw Reimbursement & Consulting, this article highlights recent CMS surveyor guidance changes that place increased scrutiny on MDS accuracy, documentation and resident interview practices. It outlines common MDS-related survey tags and risk areas facilities are seeing during surveys, with practical insight to help teams strengthen compliance and avoid citations.
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IHCA has launched a major new member benefit for skilled nursing facility (SNF) members: full, complimentary access to The Compliance Store, a comprehensive compliance platform designed specifically for long-term care providers. Included with IHCA membership dues, the platform offers regulatory tools, customizable policies and survey-preparation resources to support compliance and survey readiness. A live demo will be held Wednesday, Jan. 21, with an on-demand recording available afterward.
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IHCA is offering skilled nursing facility (SNF) members full, complimentary access to The Compliance Store, a comprehensive compliance platform designed for long-term care providers. The platform includes customizable policies, survey-preparation tools and up-to-date regulatory resources to support day-to-day compliance. Clinical staff may request access through their administrator, and a live demo will be held Wednesday, Jan. 21 with an on-demand recording available afterward.
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CMS has announced that the Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Data Validation Process for the SNF Value-Based Purchasing (VBP) and Quality Reporting (QRP) programs will begin in January 2026, delayed from the original fall timeline. Selected SNFs will be notified through their iQIES MDS 3.0 Provider Preview Report folder and must submit medical chart documentation for 10 MDS assessments within 45 days to avoid a 2% Medicare reimbursement penalty. Facilities are encouraged to begin checking their iQIES folders weekly starting in January, with additional guidance and FAQs available on CMS’s SNF data validation webpage.
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IHCA’s Jan. 21 webinar, “State and Federal Regulations – What is the Activity Director’s Responsibility?”, will examine how evolving state and federal regulations place activity directors at the center of resident-centered care and facility compliance. The session will cover federal F-tags, state licensure requirements, the activity director’s role in MDS assessments, care planning, staff management and survey preparedness. This webinar is approved for 1.0 contact hour for activity professionals and administrators.
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As part of Iowa Total Care's ongoing work to improve the prior authorization (PA) process for both providers and members, Iowa Total Care is sharing some important updates to their PA requirements. Their goal is to reduce administrative burden, simplify submission and approval processes and facilitate timely access to appropriate, high-quality care. Code changes will become effective on April 1, 2026.
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IHCA’s February LPN-IV Certification Course will begin online on Monday, Jan. 26. This course is designed to prepare licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to perform procedures related to the expanded scope of IV therapy in a licensed hospital or licensed skilled nursing facility as identified in 655 IAC 6.5(3) and is approved for 43.0 contact hours for LPNs. Please note in-person lab days will take place in West Des Moines on Feb. 10 and Feb. 25.
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IHCA’s two-part virtual "PBJ Compliance Workshop – Reporting Requirements and Survey Preparation" begins next Thursday, Jan. 15 and is designed to strengthen Payroll-Based Journal (PBJ) knowledge and survey readiness amid increased regulatory scrutiny. The series includes an overview session followed by a hands-on workshop on Jan. 29 where participants review their own PBJ reports and documentation with expert guidance to build confidence in responding to surveyors. The workshop is approved for 2.0 contact hours for nurses and administrators.
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