10/09/2025

Latest STAT Webinar Highlights Immunization Compliance

As survey activity picks up after the iQIES system transition, immunization compliance continues to draw attention from surveyors across Ohio. In 2025, F883 (Influenza and Pneumococcal Immunizations) ranked among the most frequently cited deficiencies for skilled nursing facilities, with survey findings revealing lapses in education, documentation, and timely administration of vaccines.

During October’s Survey Tips and Tactics webinar, Stephanie DeWees, LeadingAge Ohio’s long-term care quality and regulatory specialist, reviewed recent Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updates affecting vaccine policies and survey expectations. Surveyors are looking closely at whether facilities provide residents or their representatives with education about vaccine benefits and risks, offer vaccines within required timeframes, and document refusals, contraindications, and administration in accordance with CMS Appendix PP, F883.

Recent Ohio citations show recurring issues such as missing consent forms, lack of follow-up when vaccines were unavailable, and incomplete documentation of education or refusals. Facilities should ensure immunization logs are current, policies reflect the latest Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommendations, and staff are equipped to discuss vaccines confidently with residents and families.

For a deeper review of current immunization requirements and strategies to stay survey-ready, access the October STAT on Immunizations On Demand webinar on the LeadingAge Ohio Learning Center.