MDS Coordinator

MDS (or minimum data set) nurses work in long-term care facilities where they assess and monitor patient health and well-being in accordance with federal guidelines. While most MDS nurses are registered nurses (RNs), they specialize in collecting patient data and compiling this information into reports for further research and assessment. These reports are also used to develop treatment plans and evaluate the pricing and effectiveness of the facility's patient services.

The majority of the assessment and reporting activities that MDS nurses conduct are closely related to Medicare and Medicaid guidelines, but can also include gathering data to improve the facility's practices and patient outcomes.
MDS Nurse Duties and Responsibilities

While an MDS nurse's specific responsibilities can vary somewhat between facilities, many of their core duties remain the same:

Conduct Patient Assessments

One of the primary responsibilities of an MDS nurse is conducting patient assessments in accordance with federally mandated guidelines. These assessments examine patients' physical and mental well-being, focusing on indicators that can predict patient risk. If the MDS nurse identifies risk, they may also conduct the Resident Assessment Protocol (RAP) for further information and care management.

Develop Patient Care Plans

After conducting risk assessment procedures, the MDS nurse works with internal and external providers to develop patient care plans. The MDS nurse ensures that patients have access to the resources and professionals that they need, and that care plans follow federally mandated guidelines for long-term care facilities.

Make Patient and Facility Recommendations

MDS nurses contribute to effective care by making recommendations for patient support and healthcare facility operations. They may supply reports to the facility's upper management personnel as well as to the Department of Health to ensure that patient care procedures and plans are integrated in accordance with federal guidelines. MDS nurses may also direct the activities of other nursing staff and care providers.

Oversee Medicare and Medicaid Programs

MDS nurses direct their facilities' Medicare and Medicaid reporting and program activities. This can involve providing residents with assistance enrolling in these programs and updating their information, as well as monitoring changes in Medicare programs and coverage to ensure that the facility correctly issues reports and receives reimbursement for services provided to residents.

Provide Facility Support

Because MDS nurses need to be RNs or licensed practical nurses (LPNs), they may also occasionally provide support beyond their MDS reporting and assessment role. An MDS nurse may cover for other nursing staff in case of absence or illness, taking a more direct hand in patient caregiving and resident activities. In some cases, an MDS nurse may be "on call" to provide support and coverage for other nurses.