Download the complete video recording, PPT and handouts from the webinar titled “Gradual Dose Reduction: Balancing Regulatory Compliance and Resident-Centered Care”
Professional Practice Gap/Description of Education:
By the end of this education session, participants will be able to:
- Explain CMS regulatory requirements and survey expectations related to gradual dose reduction (GDR) and psychotropic medication use in long-term care settings.
- Identify the essential clinical, documentation, and interdisciplinary processes required to support appropriate GDR attempts, contraindications, and ongoing monitoring.
- Apply leadership-driven strategies to address implementation barriers, reduce survey risk, and support resident-centered, safe GDR practices.
This education session provides an in-depth review of gradual dose reduction (GDR) requirements in long-term care settings, with a focus on CMS regulations, clinical processes, and operational challenges. Participants will examine common barriers to successful GDR implementation, including behavioral health complexity, staffing limitations, and documentation gaps. The session outlines best practices for interdisciplinary collaboration, resident-centered decision-making, and risk mitigation during dose reduction attempts. Emphasis is placed on aligning clinical judgment with regulatory expectations to support resident safety and survey compliance.