Important Update: CMS Final Rule on Nursing Home NHSN Reporting Begins January 1, 2025 

On November 1, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) announced significant changes to the National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) reporting requirements for nursing homes, set to take effect on January 1, 2025. This new rule marks a transition from the current COVID-19 reporting requirements, which will expire on December 31, 2024. 

Starting in 2025, nursing homes will be required to electronically report data related to COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). This update reflects CMS and CDC’s recognition of the reporting burden on providers and incorporates feedback from the American Health Care Association (AHCA). 

Key changes include: 

– A requirement for minimal necessary data for weekly NHSN reporting to ensure resident health and safety. 

– Simplification of the reporting process with a new unified form for data submission. 

– Enhanced user support, including an improved helpdesk and tailored training for the long-term care community. 

The specific data elements to be reported starting January 1, 2025, include: 

– Facility census 

– Resident vaccination status for COVID-19, influenza, and RSV 

– Confirmed resident cases of COVID-19, influenza, and RSV (overall and by vaccination status) 

– Hospitalized residents with confirmed cases of COVID-19, influenza, and RSV (overall and by vaccination status) 

Additionally, the final rule grants the Secretary of Health and Human Services the authority to require additional data elements or increased reporting frequency in the event of a future public health emergency related to acute respiratory illness. 

This rule was officially published on November 7, 2024. For any questions, please reach out to [email protected]. 

Stay informed and prepared as we transition to these new reporting requirements! 

Kelly R. Dines
Vice President of Clinical Operations