STAT: Survey Tips and Tactics 2026 – Food Safety

October 14, 2026 | Live Webinar

Discover how nursing homes are being cited with their annual surveys. The Long-Term Care Survey Process and regulatory language will be reviewed. Each month will delve into a specific survey topic. Common citation examples will be given with interactive discussion from members sharing their survey experiences, best practices, and lessons learned.  Obtain useful tips and tactics for the monthly highlighted topic. Resources and other reference material will be shared.

F812 Food Safety is the 2nd most frequently cited F-tag during annual nursing home surveys, making food safety one of the most significant and persistent areas of survey risk. Compliance extends beyond kitchen cleanliness and includes the entire process of storing, preparing, distributing, and serving food safely. Because food preparation and service involve multiple staff, locations, and processes throughout the day, even seemingly minor breakdowns in food safety practices can create significant survey exposure.

This session will review CMS requirements under F812 and the common practices that place facilities at risk for deficiencies, including food storage and temperatures, hand hygiene, cross-contamination, food preparation and service, and cleaning and sanitization of equipment and utensils. Participants will learn what surveyors evaluate during food service observations and practical strategies facilities can use to identify and correct food safety concerns before they result in a deficiency.

Continuing Education Information to follow.

Learners have 10 days from live webinar date to complete course, including obtaining education certificate.