MDS Coordinator (RN)(RNAC)

The MDS Coordinator (RN) is responsible for overseeing and managing the Resident Assessment Instrument (RAI) process, ensuring accurate and timely completion of Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessments. This role supports resident-centered care planning, regulatory compliance, accurate reimbursement, and interdisciplinary communication. The MDS Coordinator works closely with nursing, therapy, social services, dietary, and administrative teams to ensure comprehensive documentation and high-quality resident care.

Key Responsibilities

MDS & RAI Process

• Complete, coordinate, and submit all MDS assessments (OBRA and PPS/PDPM) accurately and within required timelines.
• Ensure compliance with federal and state regulations, RAI guidelines, and facility policies.
• Conduct interviews with residents as required for MDS sections (e.g., mood, cognition, preferences).
• Review clinical documentation for accuracy and ensure supporting documentation is present for all coded items.

Care Planning

• Develop, update, and oversee individualized resident care plans based on MDS findings.
• Lead and facilitate interdisciplinary care plan meetings.
• Ensure care plans reflect resident needs, preferences, goals, and risk factors.
• Assist clinical staff in implementing and updating care interventions as resident conditions change.

Clinical Documentation & Accuracy

• Monitor documentation to ensure it accurately reflects resident status and supports PDPM components.
• Provide education and guidance to nursing staff on documentation expectations and MDS-related requirements.
• Audit resident charts regularly to ensure accuracy and regulatory compliance.

PDPM & Reimbursement

• Evaluate clinical indicators and data to ensure accurate PDPM coding and case-mix optimization.
• Track and monitor PDPM components including nursing, SLP, NTA, and functional scoring.
• Work with billing and administrative teams to ensure accurate reimbursement and identify opportunities for improvement.

Interdisciplinary Coordination

• Collaborate with therapy, dietary, social services, and other departments to ensure timely and accurate information for the MDS.
• Communicate assessment outcomes, care needs, and risk factors to the clinical team.
• Support QAPI initiatives related to quality measures and resident outcomes.

Compliance & Quality Measures

• Track and monitor Quality Measures (QMs) and assist with improvement strategies.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of RAI guidelines, CMS regulations, and PDPM updates.
• Participate in facility surveys and prepare related MDS documentation when required.

Qualifications

• Registered Nurse (RN) in good standing with the state Board of Nursing (required).
• Previous experience as an MDS Coordinator in a SNF preferred.
• Strong knowledge of RAI process, OBRA requirements, PDPM, and long-term care regulations.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and analytical skills.
• Ability to manage multiple deadlines and work collaboratively with interdisciplinary staff.
• Proficiency in electronic medical record systems (e.g., PointClickCare, MatrixCare).