CMS Endorses Person-Centered Care and Quality of Life
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) set the Federal nursing home regulations. There are quality of care standards that were defined in the Nursing Home Reform Law (OBRA ’87) which became effective in 1990, and the first set of regulations was issued in 1991.
A comprehensive revision of the regulations was issued by CMS and became effective on November 28, 2016. The revisions were made to reflect the “substantial advances that have been made over the past several years in the theory and practice of service delivery and safety.” (CMS) These new regulations incorporate “modern-day language, technological advances, and best practices.” (Consumer Voice)
A focus on Person-Centered Care and Quality of Life is integrated throughout the new regulations. There is also a greater focus on addressing a resident’s individual needs and preferences, and person-centered planning. CMS has affirmed the regulations’ goals of supporting Person-Centered Care and enabling each resident to attain his or her highest level of well-being.
