Minimum Date Set (MDS) Nurse

About the role

Luna Rehabilitation & Care Center is seeking an experienced and detail‑oriented MDS Coordinator to join the clinical leadership team. The coordinator will oversee the Resident Assessment Instrument (RAI) process, ensure accurate and timely completion of Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessments, develop care plans, maintain regulatory compliance, and optimize reimbursement. The role works closely with nursing leadership, therapy, social services, dietary, and interdisciplinary team members to promote exceptional resident‑centered care.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive MDS assessments in accordance with CMS, state, and facility requirements.
• Coordinate the completion and submission of all MDS assessments within required regulatory timelines.
• Establish Assessment Reference Dates (ARDs) and manage the MDS scheduling process.
• Develop, coordinate, and update individualized resident care plans based on assessment findings.
• Collaborate with nursing, therapy, dietary, social services, and interdisciplinary team members to ensure care plans accurately reflect resident needs.
• Monitor resident condition changes and ensure appropriate MDS modifications and care‑plan updates are completed.
• Maintain accurate clinical documentation to support reimbursement, quality measures, and regulatory compliance.
• Submit MDS data to CMS and state databases in accordance with federal requirements.
• Review resident records and care plans to ensure consistency, accuracy, and compliance with CMS standards.
• Assist with Medicare Part A and PDPM documentation, diagnosis validation, and reimbursement optimization.
• Participate in Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) initiatives.
• Monitor quality measures and identify opportunities for clinical and operational improvement.
• Provide education and training to nursing staff regarding MDS processes, documentation standards, and care‑planning requirements.
• Remain current on RAI Manual updates, CMS regulations, reimbursement methodologies, and industry best practices.
• Assist with survey preparation and support regulatory compliance efforts.

Qualifications

• Graduate of an accredited nursing program with a current, active RN or LPN license in good standing in the State of New Mexico.
• Previous MDS experience in a skilled nursing or long‑term care setting preferred.
• Strong knowledge of CMS regulations, RAI Manual requirements, PDPM methodology, and Medicare reimbursement processes.
• Experience with care‑plan development and interdisciplinary care coordination.
• Understanding of Quality Measures (QMs), Five‑Star Quality Rating Systems, and regulatory compliance standards.
• Strong clinical assessment, critical thinking, and analytical skills.
• Excellent organizational and time‑management abilities.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills.
• Proficiency with electronic medical records (EMR) systems and MDS software platforms.
• Commitment to providing high‑quality, resident‑centered care and maintaining regulatory excellence.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid Time Off (PTO).
• 401(k) plan.
• Care Cash Program.
• Referral Bonus Program.
• Continuing education opportunities.
• Supportive and collaborative work environment.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, stand, walk, and move throughout the facility for extended periods.
• Ability to review clinical records, assessments, and documentation with accuracy and attention to detail.
• Ability to participate in resident assessments, care conferences, and interdisciplinary meetings.
• Ability to respond promptly to clinical, regulatory, and operational needs.
• Ability to lift, carry, and transport materials or equipment up to 25 pounds as needed.

About Us

Luna Rehabilitation & Care Center proudly serves the Roswell, New Mexico community by providing exceptional skilled nursing, rehabilitation, and long‑term care services. Our mission is rooted in compassion, dignity, and excellence as we strive to improve the quality of life for every resident we serve. We foster a workplace culture where employees are valued, supported, and empowered to succeed—professionally and personally.