Close up image of a caretaker helping older woman walk

A draft version of the new MDS 3.0 for nursing homes and long-term care facilities was posted Monday on the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ Web site.

The MDS 3.0 draft version is not the final version, CMS warns, and should not be used for training purposes. The final version is slated for release in October of this year, and will include the item set, data specifications and RAI manual. Any questions or comments on the draft version should be directed to [email protected].

The draft version of the MDS 3.0 and a timeline for its implementation can be found by searching for “MDS 3.0” on the CMS Web site, or by visiting the following Web address: http://www.cms.hhs.gov/NursingHomeQualityInits/25_NHQIMDS30.asp.