STAT: Survey Tips and Tactics 2026 – Preparing for CMS Risk-Based Surveys

August 12, 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.

Hospice services remain an important component of resident-centered end-of-life care in nursing homes, but recent federal enforcement activity has significantly increased scrutiny surrounding hospice eligibility, physician certifications, documentation practices, coordination of care, and oversight responsibilities. In May 2026, CMS announced a nationwide moratorium on new hospice enrollments due to ongoing concerns related to fraud, waste, abuse, medically unnecessary hospice services, and improper certifications. Nursing homes remain responsible for ensuring hospice services provided within the facility meet professional standards and principle, are delivered timely, and are coordinated with the resident’s comprehensive care plan.

Beginning September 8, 2026, CMS will implement the Risk-Based Survey (RBS) process nationwide for qualifying nursing homes. This session will review the RBS qualification and disqualification criteria, discuss what surveyors evaluate during the streamlined survey process, and provide practical strategies to strengthen survey readiness, maintain eligibility, and avoid common pitfalls. In addition to reviewing CMS guidance, this presentation incorporates insights collected from LeadingAge Ohio members' experiences with the Risk-Based Survey process.

Continuing Education Information: 

1.0 clock hour will be awarded upon successful completion.   Pending BELTSS approval.

Criteria for successful completion: Attendance at entire event and submission of completed evaluation form.

LeadingAge Ohio is an approved provider by the Board of Executives of Long Term Services and Supports. Core of knowledge subject areas: Care, Services and Support; Operations; Environment and Quality. 

As stated in the Ohio Administrative Code Rule 4723-14-05, education that has been approved by a board or an agency that regulates a health care profession in Ohio or another jurisdiction is an acceptable option to meet nursing continuing education requirements.

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