• CMS: Information Only: New Dining Standards of Practice Resources are Available Now [REF: Diet, LDR, MD, RN] Survey and Cert Letter 13-13 [PDF, 122KB] March 1, 2013, 3 Pgs

“Research has indicated that many older individuals may not need to be limited to very restrictive diets, pureed foods, and thickened liquids even though they may have many chronic conditions. Conversely, restricting food choices can result in loss of appetite and eventual weight loss. • Surveyor Training Video: The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is providing a new 24-minute video training product to all survey agencies with information on new dining standards of practice and therapeutic diets. This video, which is an introduction to the New Dining Practice Standards (60-page Guide), was developed by several national professional organizations.

Tip: Although originally intended for nursing home populations, consider using this material (especially the training video) in a P&T or Nursing Leadership meeting to review the new guidelines and potential improvement opportunities regarding diabetic, low-salt and cardiac diets.