Dallas-based MDS LTC Training and Consulting, LLC has recently opened up a new training center in Dallas to educate nurses and care facilities on Minimum Data Set 3.0 practices that can help long-term care facilities increase Medicaid/Medicare reimbursement rates. Minimum Data Set, or MDS, is the assessment tool used by care facilities that measures the psychological and physiological capabilities of long-term care patients. The information is then used to determine the healthcare needs of those patients.

MDS LTC Training and Consulting is primarily focused on providing advanced MDS 3.0 training to existing MDS Coordinators in the field, along with corporate consulting to facility administrators. According to MDS LTC Training and Consulting, many MDS educational programs do not cover the assessment requirements in close enough detail that is required by the federal government for Medicaid/Medicare reimbursement:

"Over the past several years we have seen many facilities fall short when it comes to getting reimbursed by Medicaid/Medicare. It is the MDS Coordinator's job to ensure that the facility operates in compliance with federal standards when it comes to patient assessment and documentation. Many care facilities are unable meet these requirements due to recent changes in procedure from MDS 2.0 to the newer form. As a MDS training and consulting company we understand the importance of proper documentation--which is why we have created our advanced training program to bring MDS Coordinators up to speed with MDS 3.0 requirements."

The company currently conducts their training and consulting seminars at their Dallas location, stating that many online training programs are not as comprehensive due to their impersonal teaching approach:

"It is imperative that students understand the documentation procedures required by federal law to perform their job as MDS Coordinators. Our in-class program covers MDS 3.0 in very close detail, unlike many online training programs. Students are required to participate in class and take tests during the 16 or 32 hour course. The trainings are taught and supervised by individuals who are experts in the field. This allows students to have any questions answers immediately and ensure that the trainees will be successful when returning to their facility. Ultimately their success will lead to the long-term care facility's success."

Training courses are held every month and trainees can register online by visiting the MDS LTC Training and Consulting website. Registration is now available for a 16 hour course that is being held on September 26/27, 2015.