MDS 3.0 Quality Measures (QM) User's Manual v18.0 — Effective January 1, 2026
At Simple, we work to keep providers informed of the regulatory updates that directly affect care delivery, quality reporting, and reimbursement. As CMS releases new guidance, we monitor changes, summarize what matters most, and ensure you have the information needed to stay compliant and prepared.
The Minimum Data Set (MDS) 3.0 Quality Measures (QM) User’s Manual Version 18.0 is now available, along with all associated files. These updates are effective January 1, 2026 and include important changes for providers and stakeholders. Providers should review the new materials carefully to ensure compliance under the updated methodology.
What's Included in the Update?
CMS has published a downloadable zip file titled:
MDS 3.0 QM User’s Manual v18.0 Effective 1-1-2026 and Associated User Manual Files.zip
This .zip file contains:
- MDS 3.0 QM User’s Manual V18.0
- Detailed specifications for MDS 3.0 Quality Measures
- Notable Changes from V17.0:
- Respecification of the Long Stay Antipsychotic Measure
- Risk adjustor modification to function measures due to removal of item O0400 from MDS v1.20.
- Risk Adjustment Appendix File
- Includes logistic regression coefficient values for calculating risk-adjusted QMs in the Nursing Home Quality Initiative (NHQI), effective January 1, 2026
- Nursing Home Compare Claims-based Quality Measure Technical Specifications
- Updated June 2025
- Detailed technical specifications for all Nursing Home Claims-based QMs
- Nursing Home Compare Quality Measures Technical Specifications Appendix
- Tables and appendices related to Claims-based QMs
- SNF QM User’s Manual V7.0
- Effective October 1, 2025
- Includes changes to function measures based on removal of item O0400
- Risk Adjustment Appendix for SNF QM Manual V7.0
- Coefficient values for risk-adjusted SNF measures
- Reflects updates effective October 1, 2025
Why This Matters
These updates directly impact how SNFs:
- Calculate risk-adjusted Quality Measures
- Interpret performance trends
- Report QMs for public-facing quality programs
- Prepare for survey, compliance reviews, and value-based initiatives
Understanding the updated specifications is essential for accurate reporting and maintaining compliance as the 2026 reporting cycle begins.
Facilities should ensure that clinical, MDS, and quality teams review these documents together to understand operational impacts and prepare workflows accordingly.
Stay Informed
Simple will continue to monitor CMS updates and provide additional resources, including webinars, breakdowns, and software updates to help you navigate these changes with confidence.
Links and Resources
Links:
Reference:
https://www.cms.gov/medicare/quality/nursing-home-improvement/quality-measures