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Minimum Data Set (MDS)

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Nursing facilities, skilled nursing units, and swing bed hospital providers must conduct standardized assessments of residents' using the Minimum Data Set (MDS). The automated MDS system, called the Internet Quality Improvement Evaluation System (iQIES) enables the transmission of data for payment validation under the Medicare Skilled Nursing Facility Prospective Payment System. Managed by CMS, this federally-owned database adheres to the Federal Privacy Act and the MDS System of Records (MDS-SOR) notice regarding privacy and information disclosure. For more information on CMS’ privacy policy, visit: CMS Privacy Website.

The Quality Improvement and Evaluation Service (QIES) staff is responsible for overseeing the MDS program at the Oklahoma State Department of Health.  The MDS program oversees the delivery of health care information and provides consultative support to facilities regarding the MDS process. Key responsibilities include educating providers on MDS methodology and accurately completing each MDS data set, interpreting validation reports, aiding in error correction, and conducting regular and ad-hoc training sessions for agency staff and surveyors. Further duties involve supporting software vendors and assisting surveyors with MDS related questions during the survey process. Additionally, we send important announcements and updates via GovDelivery. If you would like to receive updates please sign-up and select the following two topics: MDS Information and Quality Improvement & Evaluation Service.

Special Announcements

Please read the following before registering:

  • We ask that you register each person that plans to attend the workshop.

  • Walk-ins are welcome if seating is available.

  • Please contact the QIES Help Desk for any assistance or questions at:

(405) 426-8160 or MDShelp@health.ok.gov

Training Name and Date 
 Location Details/Information
This training has concluded. Gordon Cooper Technology Center
1 John C Bruton Blvd.
Shawnee, OK		 If desired, bring updated 2024 RAI Manual—either hard copy or electronic version, highlighter, extra battery charger for laptop or phone, and jacket for comfort.

If you need help with clinical, automation, or workshop questions, please contact the QIES Help Desk at (405) 426-8160.

Our trainers are here for you!

QIES Education

As of October 1, 2025, facilities will not be able to submit records with a target date of 10/1/25 and later using the iQIES User Interface Tool. Nursing facilities must obtain software developed by private vendors in order to submit MDS assessments.

Facilities may choose to submit their assessments in one of the following methods, depending on their policy:

  • Submit their own assessments via the software vendor, Or
  • The vendor may submit for the facility, Or
  • The corporate office may submit assessments for the facility.

  • CMS YouTube Training Videos for MDS 3.0 - From the "MDS 3.0 Training Materials" web page, videos are located towards the bottom under "Related Links Outside CMS".  MP4 video files are also provided just in case your facility is not able to access the videos via YouTube website. 

Related Topics

Contact Information

Mailing Address:
Oklahoma State Department of Health
Quality Improvement and Evaluation Service
123 Robert S. Kerr. Ave Suite 1702
Oklahoma City, OK 73102-6406

Physical Address:
Oklahoma State Department of Health
123 Robert S. Kerr. Ave
Oklahoma City, OK

Phone: (405) 426-8160
Fax: (405) 900-7573

For help with automation and clinical issues, or questions regarding training and registration, contact your QIES Team: MDS Help Desk.

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