Position Summary
The MDS Coordinator is responsible for managing and coordinating the Resident Assessment Instrument (RAI) process to ensure accurate and timely completion of the Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessments and related documentation in accordance with federal and state regulations. The MDS Coordinator works collaboratively with interdisciplinary team members to develop comprehensive care plans that promote the highest practicable physical, mental, and psychosocial well-being of each resident.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
- Coordinate, schedule, and complete MDS assessments within federally mandated timeframes.
- Ensure accurate and timely data collection, entry, and submission to CMS via the Quality Improvement and Evaluation System (QIES) or its current platform.
- Review medical records, nursing notes, therapy documentation, and other relevant information to ensure accuracy of MDS data.
- Lead or participate in interdisciplinary care plan meetings, ensuring resident-centered care plans are comprehensive and individualized.
- Collaborate with nursing, therapy, dietary, and social services departments to ensure all care plan components are integrated and implemented.
- Conduct regular audits to ensure MDS and care plans reflect residents’ current status and needs.
Compliance and Quality Assurance
- Maintain current knowledge of RAI manual guidelines, coding requirements, and CMS updates.
- Monitor accuracy of assessments impacting reimbursement under the Patient-Driven Payment Model (PDPM).
- Identify and report potential compliance risks and assist in corrective actions.
- Participate in facility quality assurance and performance improvement (QAPI) activities.
- Educate nursing and interdisciplinary staff on documentation and MDS processes.
Resident and Family Support
- Communicate with residents and families to explain assessment and care planning processes as needed.
- Advocate for residents’ rights, preferences, and individualized goals of care.
Administrative Responsibilities
- Maintain confidentiality of resident records in compliance with HIPAA regulations.
- Track and maintain schedules for admission, quarterly, annual, and significant change MDS assessments.
- Provide reports and data to administration, DON, and corporate compliance as requested.
- Participate in state or federal surveys and provide requested MDS-related information to surveyors.
Qualifications
- Education: Graduate of an accredited school of nursing (Registered Nurse or Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse).
- Licensure: Current and active nursing license in good standing with the state board.
- Experience:
- Minimum of 1–2 years of experience in MDS coordination preferred.
- Prior experience in long-term care or skilled nursing facility required.
- Knowledge and Skills:
- Comprehensive understanding of the RAI process, MDS 3.0, and PDPM reimbursement methodology.
- Strong analytical and organizational skills with keen attention to detail.
- Proficient in electronic medical records (EMR) and MDS software (e.g., PointClickCare, MatrixCare).
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to educate and collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams.
Physical Requirements
- Frequent sitting, standing, and walking within the facility.
- Occasional lifting up to 25 lbs.
- Visual and auditory acuity sufficient to assess documentation and communicate effectively.
Work Environment
- Office setting within a skilled nursing facility.
- Occasional exposure to resident care areas and clinical environments.
- Requires flexibility with scheduling to meet submission deadlines and facility needs.
Core Competencies
- Regulatory compliance and accuracy
- Resident-centered care planning
- Data integrity and attention to detail
- Collaboration and interdisciplinary teamwork
- Leadership, education, and accountability
“Note: This position requires screening through the AHCA Clearinghouse. Please visit https://ahca.myflorida.com/health-quality-assurance/bureau-of-central-services/background-screening/clearinghouse for more information.”
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $34.66 - $41.74 per hour
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
