The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) posted an errata change table on March 30, 2026, for the MDS 3.0 Quality Measures (QM) User’s Manual Version 18.0. The update provides clarification related to the Long-Stay Antipsychotic measure outlined in Chapter 1, Section 6 of the manual.
According to CMS, the errata addresses guidance associated with the respecification of the Long-Stay Antipsychotic measure, which became effective January 1, 2026. The revisions are intended to clarify how the measure should be interpreted and applied.
In addition to the errata change table, CMS has updated several supplemental files referenced in the manual. These include HCPCS codes, hospice exclusion codes, diagnosis exclusion ICD-10 codes, and National Drug Code (NDC) lists.
The updated manual, errata documents, and associated supplemental files are available for download in the Downloads section of the NHQI Quality Measures webpage.
Compliance Perspective
Issue
CMS has issued an errata update to the MDS 3.0 Quality Measures User’s Manual v18.0, clarifying guidance for the Long-Stay Antipsychotic measure effective January 1, 2026. The update also includes revisions to associated supplemental files, such as HCPCS codes, hospice exclusions, ICD-10 diagnosis exclusions, and NDC codes. As CMS continues to refine quality measure specifications, facilities should ensure internal processes reflect the most current guidance to support accurate reporting and compliance.
Discussion Points
- Facilities should review and update policies and procedures related to quality measure reporting, particularly those addressing the Long-Stay Antipsychotic measure. This includes ensuring that documentation practices, coding processes, and data submission workflows align with the updated guidance and supplemental files. Facilities may also consider working with a consultant to perform a targeted review of current practices and identify any gaps related to the updated measure specifications.
- Staff education should focus on reinforcing understanding of the Long-Stay Antipsychotic measure, including updated definitions, exclusions, and documentation requirements. Clinical, coding, and MDS staff should understand how their roles contribute to accurate measure calculation and reporting. Med-Net Academy offers the course Unnecessary Drugs, which reviews key concepts such as appropriate use of psychotropic and antipsychotic medications, gradual dose reduction, medication monitoring, and documentation practices.
- Facilities should conduct routine audits to validate data accuracy and ensure compliance with updated CMS guidance. Audits may include reviews of coding accuracy, documentation supporting exclusions, and consistency in MDS coding practices. Some facilities may benefit from engaging an external reviewer to conduct focused audits or mock reviews, providing an objective assessment and helping to identify areas for improvement prior to survey or public reporting. Contact Med-Net Healthcare Consulting or info@mednetconcepts.com for more information.
*This news alert has been prepared by Med-Net Concepts, Inc. for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide legal advice.*