NHSN Updates

NHSN was updated to Version 9.3 on April 27, 2019.  There have been many additions and changes with this release, including the following updates to the Dialysis Component:

• CDA Dialysis Monthly Summary – the CDA for version R3D3 of the Dialysis Monthly Summary was updated to allow “Report No Events”.  The functionality is available for both manual CDA import and Direct CDA submissions.

• Analysis and Reporting:
  • Updated dialysis aggregate data from 2016-2017 for rate tables and run charts.
  • Created a new TAP report type and changed report icon for Excess Infections.  A new Excess Infections report type allows for modifications to the TAP report without disturbing functionality used by other NHSN components.
  • In 2018, the Dialysis Component began collecting data using an AKI location.  Now that some data have been collected, data reported to that AKI location are included in dialysis rate tables and run charts so facilities and groups can review AKI-specific rates for the various dialysis event measures.

In order to use any of the new analysis output options you must first regenerate datasets.  As always, send all questions to the NHSN Helpdesk at NHSN@cdc.gov.

5/22 CMS/NKF Webinar on CKD Risk Reduction

CMS and NKF will present a May 22, 2019 webinar on on Population Health Strategies for Kidney Disease Risk Reduction, at noon PST.  Nephrologists, dialysis facility medical directors and renal care providers are invited and encouraged to attend. The NKF CKD Change Package will be introduced, systematic strategies for improving identification and management of CKD will be described, and a population health strategy for registry function, QI, and patient engagement for people living with CKD will be presented.  Register for the webinar at https://meetings-cms.webex.com/meetings-cms/onstage/g.php?MTID=e06e8b0a5642756b1b7a7e0998d0eeeb8.  Find the NKF CKD Change Package at https://www.kidney.org/sites/default/files/02-11-8036_JBI_CKD_ChangePackV17.pdf.

CY2019 PPS/AKI MLN Matters

CMS has published an MLN Matters bulletin on Implementation of Changes in the ESRD PPS and Payment for Dialysis Furnished for AKI in ESRD
Facilities for CY2019.  Find it at https://www.cms.gov/Outreach-and-Education/Medicare-Learning-Network-MLN/MLNMattersArticles/Downloads/MM11021.pdf.

CY2019 QIP Summary

CMS has published a summary of CY2019 changes to the ESRD QIP and to reimbursement for AKI treatment, that were final on November 1, 2018.  Find the summary at https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/cy19-esrddme-nprm-cms-1691-f-and-dmepos-competitive-bidding-program-temporary-gap-period.

CY2019 QIP Final Rule

CMS has filed the CY2019 Final Rule for Medicare Program; ESRD PPS, Payment for Renal Dialysis Services Furnished to Individuals with AKI, ESRD QIP, DMEPOS CBP and Fee Schedule Amounts, and Technical Amendments to Correct Existing Regulations Related to the CBP for Certain DMEPOS.  Find the CMS press release at https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-finalizes-policies-modernize-and-drive-innovation-durable-medical-equipment-dme-and-end-stage, the Final Rule at https://s3.amazonaws.com/public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2018-24238.pdf, and a fact sheet at https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/cy19-esrddme-nprm-cms-1691-f-and-dmepos-competitive-bidding-program-temporary-gap-period.

9/21+ ANNA 503 Fall Workshop

The ANNA Chapter 503 Fall Workshop will be held in Seattle on September 29, 2018, but online pre-registration is required by September 21, 2019.  There will be no on-site or by-mail registration.  Topics include Learning Cultures, HD Case Studies, Marijuana, AKI, PD Catheter Placement, Gn, and Ethics.  7.2 CE are available.  For more information see https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/nwrn.org/files/N/ANNA/ANNA503Fall.pdf.  Register at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/anna-503-fall-renal-workshop-2018-tickets-47333611105, and find directions to the Workshop venue at http://www.seattlechildrens.org/contact/main-hospital/map/.  Parking is free in Lot 1; follow walkway to “River” Entrance.

1/10+ NW16 ANNA Renal Update

The Greater Puget Sound Chapter #503 of ANNA will present their 2018 Renal Update February 1-2, 2018 in Lynnwood WA.  Topics include incivility, surveys, iatrogenic death, teach-back, calciphylaxis, difficult conversations, passion and compassion, AKI, organ donation, ultrafiltration, lupus, hyponatremia, hyperoxaluria, and the future of dialysis.  Registration is online only, and closes on January 29, 2018.  Discounts are available until 11:30 pm PST January 10, 2018.  For more information see https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/nwrn.org/files/N/ANNA/RenalUpdate2018.pdf.