LeadingAge submitted comments on April 15 for a proposed rule that would expand the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) oversight of Accrediting Organizations (AOs) with deemed status, or those that can conduct surveys and certify new providers. The rule would also create consistency between AO surveys and State Agency surveyors.

We supported a number of the proposals but stressed that some proposals may unintentionally restrict AOs from providing beneficial education and support to improve compliance. LeadingAge also urged CMS to approve a deemed status AO for nursing facilities.