MDS Coordinator - RN

Job Description

Position: MDS, RN

Department: Nursing

Reports To: Administrator

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

General Purpose

The MDS, RN provides expert guidance and support in the Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment process to ensure accuracy, regulatory compliance, and optimal reimbursement in long-term care facilities. This role partners with facility leadership and interdisciplinary teams to enhance MDS practices, improve documentation accuracy, support survey readiness, and promote high-quality, resident-centered care. The MDS Consultant delivers education, conducts audits, and recommends process improvements that strengthen clinical operations and financial performance.

Responsibilities

Regulatory Compliance

Ensure facility compliance with federal and state regulations related to MDS assessments, care planning, and documentation.

Monitor regulatory updates, CMS guidance, and RAI Manual changes, and educate staff on applicable requirements.

Support survey readiness and assist with responses related to MDS and care planning processes.

Reimbursement Optimization

Guide facilities in accurate MDS coding, assessment scheduling, and documentation to support appropriate reimbursement.

Review Medicare and Medicaid case-mix classifications to ensure accuracy and compliance.

Identify missed opportunities or risks related to reimbursement and provide corrective recommendations.

Clinical Quality & Resident Care

Promote best practices in MDS data collection, interdisciplinary collaboration, and care plan development.

Use MDS data and quality measures to support improved resident outcomes and quality indicators.

Assist facilities in aligning clinical documentation with resident care needs and regulatory expectations.

Training & Education

Provide initial and ongoing training to MDS coordinators, nursing staff, therapy staff, and leadership.

Educate teams on MDS processes, assessment timelines, documentation standards, and regulatory changes.

Develop and deliver educational materials, tools, and resources to support competency and consistency.

Audits & Assessments

Conduct comprehensive audits of MDS assessments, supporting documentation, and care plans.

Identify trends, gaps, and compliance risks, and communicate findings to facility leadership.

Develop and assist with implementation of corrective action plans and follow-up audits.

Process Improvement & Consulting Support

Analyze current MDS workflows and interdisciplinary processes.

Recommend and assist with implementation of process improvements to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and outcomes.

Serve as a subject matter expert and resource for facility leadership regarding MDS-related issues.

Qualifications

Active Registered Nurse (RN) license required; multi-state licensure preferred.

MDS Certification (e.g., RAC-CT, RAC-CTA, or equivalent) strongly preferred.

Minimum of 3–5 years of experience in long-term care nursing with significant MDS coordination experience.

Demonstrated knowledge of the RAI process, CMS regulations, PDPM, and reimbursement systems.

Prior experience in consulting, auditing, or education roles preferred.

Expert knowledge of MDS assessment processes and regulatory requirements.

Strong analytical, auditing, and problem-solving skills.

Excellent communication, presentation, and training abilities.

Ability to work independently and collaboratively with diverse teams.

Proficiency with electronic health records and MDS software systems.

Regular and reliable attendance is required to perform the essential functions of this position.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Ability to travel to client facilities as needed (if applicable).

Ability to sit, stand, and use a computer for extended periods.

Visual and auditory acuity sufficient to review clinical documentation and conduct training.

Ability to meet deadlines and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds at a time.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The noise level in the work environment is usually low to moderate.

Fast-paced setting that requires responsiveness to time-sensitive needs and regulatory requirements

Collaborative environment with frequent coordination across departments (nursing, billing, administration, and external vendors)

Structured and compliance-driven workplace with strict adherence to healthcare regulations, confidentiality (e.g., HIPAA), and documentation standards

Requires adaptability and professionalism when handling sensitive situations involving residents, families, and care staff

Disclaimer

Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Critical features of this job are described under various headings above. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons. The above statements are strictly intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees in this position.

Full-time