AHCA Introduces Better Way Agenda for Quality Care in Skilled Nursing
The American Health Care Association (AHCA) has introduced the Better Way agenda, emphasizing high-quality care for the aging U.S. population. This initiative advocates for a streamlined regulatory framework that is efficient, transparent, and accountable, ensuring effective oversight. Recent updates from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) support this objective by improving processes for skilled nursing facilities (SNFs), reducing administrative hurdles, and prioritizing resident care.
A notable amendment is the revamped Informal Dispute Resolution (IDR) process, empowering facilities to contest citations with greater efficiency. Previously, prolonged delays in the IDR process risked reputational damage for facilities. The new guidelines, effective from April 30, 2026, require CMS to render decisions within 60 days, complete with written explanations. Holly Harmon from AHCA/NCAL highlighted the critical role of these explanations in advancing quality improvement efforts.
Additionally, CMS has updated its approach to offsite deficiency reviews, now allowing desk reviews for minor deficiencies to address backlog challenges. This strategic revision optimizes resources and speeds up regulatory compliance checks, enhancing operational efficiency. Harmon reiterated the value of these updates in streamlining administrative procedures.
To prevent enforcement delays from overlapping survey cycles, CMS has refined its system to initiate new cycles only after resolving earlier deficiencies. Furthermore, starting July 2025, the Nursing Home Compare Health Inspection Rating will consider only the two most recent surveys for a more accurate reflection of facility standards.
In response to system overwhelm, CMS has postponed the January 2026 deadline for the SNF provider enrollment revalidation process. This decision, backed by AHCA, aims to maintain care continuity while assisting nursing homes in meeting regulatory compliance requirements without risking Medicare and Medicaid program suspension. John Kane of AHCA/NCAL emphasized the need to balance transparency with administrative feasibility.
The Civil Money Penalty (CMP) Reinvestment Program also received enhancements, broadening the use of funds for technological, workforce, and behavioral health advancements. The application process has been simplified nationwide, increasing accessibility to crucial resources.
Culminating these updates, CMS’s Center for Clinical Standards and Quality (CCSQ) released a strategic roadmap focused on prevention and quality improvement. This roadmap aligns with AHCA’s vision, advocating for risk-based surveys and streamlined regulations. These significant changes highlight a collaborative commitment to improving health and safety outcomes for the elderly, driven by AHCA’s continued advocacy for rational and efficient systems.