STAT: Survey Tips and Tactics 2026 – Medication Storage, Labeling, and Controlled Substance Oversight

April 8, 2026

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.

In 2025, F761 ranked as the 6th most frequently cited deficiency in Ohio and the 5th most cited nationally, highlighting ongoing compliance challenges related to medication storage, labeling, and access controls. Federal oversight in this area is also increasing. On February 17, 2026, the HHS Office of Inspector General (OIG) added a new work plan project examining whether nursing homes and state agencies have implemented effective pharmacy service internal controls to prevent opioid overuse, misuse, and diversion among residents. This session will review CMS expectations under F761, highlight common survey findings related to medication storage, labeling, and security, and discuss the operational systems facilities should have in place to ensure safe medication practices. Participants will learn how surveyors evaluate medication storage areas, controlled substance management, and pharmacy service oversight during survey activities, and how strengthening internal controls can reduce both survey risk and medication safety concerns.

Continuing Education Information to Follow:    

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