CMS Risk-Based Surveys:
Eligibility, Expectations, and
Preparation for Nursing Facilities
December 15, 2026
1:00-2:00 pm
Event Description
Beginning in September 2026, CMS began implementation of the new Risk-Based Survey (RBS) process, a streamlined survey approach for qualifying high-performing nursing facilities that allows survey resources to be focused on facilities with higher levels of risk. Understanding how CMS identifies eligible facilities and the factors that influence participation will be essential for nursing home leaders as the new survey model is rolled out nationwide.
During this one-hour webinar, Robin Sweeney, RN, RAC-CT, QCP, of Celtic Consulting, will provide an overview of the Risk-Based Survey process and its implications for providers. Participants will learn how CMS evaluates eligibility through a variety of measures. The session will also examine how the RBS process differs from the traditional Long-Term Care Survey Process, reasons facilities may lose eligibility, and practical operational strategies organizations should consider to prepare for implementation.
In addition, participants will hear directly from a nursing facility leader who has experienced a Risk-Based Survey, offering firsthand insights, lessons learned, and practical takeaways from the survey experience.
Objectives:
1) Understand the purpose and key components of CMS’s new Risk-Based Survey process.
2) Discuss how staffing performance, complaint activity, MDS and PBJ accuracy, survey outcomes, and other operational indicators influence RBS eligibility.
3) Identify practical steps leadership teams can take to prepare staff, strengthen compliance processes, and maintain survey readiness under the new model.
Presenter:
Robin Sweeney, Clinical Reimbursement Associate; Celtic Consulting
Target Audience:
Administrators, Directors of Nursing, Managers, Staff Development, Infection Prevention, Quality Improvement staff
Cost Per Person:
$70 Mass Senior Care Member
$140 Non-Member
CEUs: 1.0
Cancellation Policy:
Mass Senior Care will be notified in writing no later than 48 hours prior to the start of the seminar for a refund, minus a $25 processing fee, which will be refunded in the manner in which the payment was made. “No Show” attendees will be billed at the full registration fee. Cancellations should be emailed to info@maseniorcare.org.
Important Payment Policy Update:
Effective January 1, 2027, payment will be required at the time of registration. Please note that “invoice” and “bill me” payment options will no longer be available. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.