Nursing home providers can finally begin taking the next step in preparation for the MDS 3.0: The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has released the MDS 3.0 Item Set, which contains information on the final version of the new assessment tool.

The MDS 3.0 is scheduled for implementation October 1, 2010. While providers have had access to draft versions of the new system for the last few months, CMS only recently released the final version. The MDS 3.0 Data Item Set, Data Specifications and other informative material for providers was unveiled Thursday during a CMS Open Door Forum for nursing home providers.

Though much of the information providers need to prepare for MDS 3.0 is now available, publication of the RAI manual has been temporarily delayed. Chapters 1, 2, 3, 5 and 6 will be available in November, while chapter 4 will be available in December, according to CMS.

To download the MDS 3.0 Item Set, visit the CMS Web site.