The Skilled Nursing Facility data validation process assesses the accuracy of Minimum Data Set (MDS)-based quality measures used in the SNF Value Based Purchasing (VBP) and Quality Reporting Programs (QRPs). The SNF data validation process has been established in response to Section 1888(h)(12) of the Social Security Act that requires the Secretary to apply a data validation process to SNF VBP and QRP measures. In the SNF Prospective Payment System (PPS) fiscal year (FY) 2024 final rule (CMS 1779-F) and FY 2025 final rule (CMS-1802-F), CMS specified that a data validation process for MDS based measures would be implemented to ensure accurate quality data beginning with the FY 2027 program year/FY 2025 performance period.
SNFs that submitted at least one MDS assessment record in the previous calendar year and have submitted at least one MDS assessment record in the current fiscal year are eligible for selection. Healthcare Management Solutions, LLC (HMS) is the data validation process contractor. HMS has an executed Data Use Agreement (DUA) with CMS and has the authority granted by CMS to request and receive medical records. No additional DUAs or other agreements are required to transmit medical records to HMS. The data validation process is scheduled to begin mid-January 2026.
Please see the CMS SNF Data Validation Process FAQs from CMS updated December 2025.

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