CMS plans to increase psychotropic drugs oversight – to include targeted audits. These stepped up efforts follow the latest updates to the State Operations Manual surveyors started using October 24, which include unnecessary psychotropic use, misdiagnosis related to antipsychotics, and gradual dose reductions of these medications. Nursing facilities are not yet required to have a psychotropic stewardship program. But adopting one can preempt regulatory action while promoting the appropriate use of these medications to improve outcomes, reduce adverse events, and drive a higher Five-Star rating.
Listen as hosts TJ Griffin and John O’Connor discuss the importance of implementing a psychotropic stewardship program to prevent headaches, problems, and costs down the line – and get a leg up if CMS decides to mandate such an initiative.
