CMS Releases SNF Data Validation Process FAQs

• By: Maureen Carland
• On: 08/26/2026 11:46:06
• In: Quality/Regulatory

CMS has published a Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Data Validation Process Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) document explaining how the MDS data validation process works, from selection through penalties. The process validates the accuracy of MDS-based quality measures used in the SNF VBP and QRP programs, with selection notices released quarterly (February, May, August, November) through iQIES.

Selected SNFs must submit points of contact within five business days of notification, then submit up to 10 requested resident records — as PDFs through a secure portal — within 45 calendar days of the initial notice. Facilities that fail to submit may face a 2% reduction to their Annual Payment Update, with reconsideration requests due within 30 days of a noncompliance letter. Validation Summary Reports are now posted to iQIES annually, and CMS will not provide case-specific explanations of findings.

CMS also reiterated that selection notices and medical records should never be emailed, as they contain PII/PHI; any such email is flagged as a breach and must be resubmitted through the secure portal. Questions about the process should go to snfvalidation@cms.hhs.gov, with the facility's CCN in the subject line.

You can review the full FAQ document for complete details, or contact regulatory@ahca.org  with questions.
 
Staff contact: mcarland[at]mehca.org