The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has issued Version 7.0 of the Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Quality Reporting Program (QRP) Measure Calculations and Reporting User’s Manual and accompanying technical files, which took effect on October 1, 2025. These updates reflect revisions to the specifications used to calculate and report SNF QRP quality measures and incorporate changes aligned with recent updates to the Minimum Data Set (MDS).
Version 7.0 replaces the previous Version 6.0 and includes updated calculation methodologies for several quality measures. Among the key changes is the removal of MDS item O0400 in MDS 3.0 version 1.20.1, which has led to modifications in the function measures. This change affects how SNFs assess and report certain resident outcomes tied to functional status.
The Risk Adjustment Appendix File now includes updated coefficient values used to risk-adjust quality measures based on resident characteristics. These coefficients are designed to ensure more accurate and equitable comparisons across facilities. While several components have been revised, the Hierarchical Condition Category (HCC) to ICD-10 code crosswalks used in risk adjustment models for the Discharge Self-Care, Discharge Mobility, and Discharge Function Score measures remain unchanged from Version 6.0.
The Imputation Appendix File has been updated to include imputed coefficients used for calculating the Discharge Function Score when data elements are missing. These values help ensure consistent scoring even when assessment information is incomplete.
A detailed Change Table is available to summarize the differences between Versions 6.0 and 7.0, helping SNFs quickly identify the updates most relevant to their reporting processes.
The manual and associated files can be found in the Downloads section on the SNF QRP Measures and Technical Information webpage. The updated Skilled Nursing Facility Quality Reporting Program Measure Calculations and Reporting User’s Manual, Version 7.0 is available here.
Compliance Perspective
Issue
CMS has released Version 7.0 of the Skilled Nursing Facility Quality Reporting Program Measure Calculations and Reporting User’s Manual, along with updated technical files effective October 1, 2025. The revised materials reflect changes to the specifications used to calculate and report SNF QRP quality measures and align with updates to MDS 3.0 Version 1.20.1. Among the key revisions are modifications to the function measures resulting from the removal of MDS item O0400, updated risk adjustment coefficients, and new guidance for consistent scoring when data elements are missing. These updates affect how SNFs calculate, review, and report quality data that impact public reporting and compliance with SNF QRP requirements.
Discussion Points
- Review policies and procedures related to quality measure data collection, validation, and submission to ensure alignment with Version 7.0 updates. Facilities should confirm that documentation, coding, and reporting practices reflect the revised MDS 3.0 Version 1.20.1 item sets and updated risk adjustment methods. Conducting a focused internal review—or working with a consultant to assess readiness—can help identify process gaps and ensure accuracy before upcoming QRP submission cycles.
- Provide education to staff responsible for completing MDS assessments and submitting QRP data to ensure they understand the recent changes and their implications for measuring calculations. Med-Net Academy offers the course, Understanding the 5-Star Rating Program, which covers the rating system’s methodology, including the three performance domains, staffing measures, survey impacts (such as infection control and complaints), and factors affecting a facility’s rating.
- Conduct audits to verify the accuracy of MDS coding and measure data used in QRP reporting. Focus audit efforts on areas affected by the Version 7.0 revisions, such as the updated functional outcome measures and risk adjustment factors. Engaging an external consultant to perform a mock review or data validation audit can provide objective feedback and help ensure compliance before the next reporting period.
*This news alert has been prepared by Med-Net Concepts, Inc. for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide legal advice.*