On September 29, 2016 the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) issued a final rule to make major changes to improve the care and safety of the nearly 1.5 million residents in the more than 15,000 long-term care facilities that participate in the Medicare and Medicaid programs. The final rule aims to reduce unnecessary hospital readmissions and infections, improve the quality of care, and strengthen safety measures for residents in these facilities. CMS believes these changes are an integral part of their commitment to transform our health system to deliver better quality care and spend health care funds strategically, setting high standards for quality and safety in long-term care facilities. To view the final rule and obtain more information on this effort, please click here.