Updates on Unnecessary Medications and Psychotropic Use

This technical report discusses updates to the State Operations Manual (SOM) and surveyor guidance by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), effective March 24, 2025. The report emphasizes the focus on unnecessary medications and the appropriate use of psychotropics, highlighting revisions to specific tags such as F757 and F605. It outlines how unnecessary medications are defined and the implications for clinical leaders in skilled nursing facilities. The report also details the increased scrutiny on psychotropic medications, particularly regarding their use as chemical restraints. Key insights from a PharMerica webinar are included, where presenters discuss the importance of appropriate drug therapy for residents, the need for adequate monitoring, and the consequences of noncompliance with the updated regulations. The report serves as a critical resource for understanding the implications of these updates on medication management in long-term care settings.