Admission, Transfer and Discharge F620-F628
The Admission, Transfer, and Discharge regulatory group outlines CMS requirements for how facilities manage the admission process, ensure nondiscriminatory practices, and support safe, compliant resident transitions. These regulations define what facilities may and may not require during admission, establish protections against inappropriate discharges, and set expectations for a person‑centered discharge planning process. This page provides an overview of each F‑tag within the Admission, Transfer, and Discharge group, including the regulatory framework facilities must follow to remain compliant.
Understanding Admission, Transfer, and Discharge F620–F628
Residents have the right to fair, transparent, and nondiscriminatory admission, transfer, and discharge practices, and facilities are responsible for ensuring these protections are upheld consistently. The Admission, Transfer, and Discharge regulatory group defines the requirements for compliant admissions policies, equal treatment regardless of payment source, safeguards against inappropriate discharges, and expectations for a safe, person‑centered discharge planning process. Understanding and implementing these standards is essential for maintaining compliance and supporting safe, orderly transitions for every resident.
F620 Admissions Policy
F621 Equal Practices Regardless of Payment Source
F627 Inappropriate Discharges (3‑Part Series)
- Pt 1: Transfer & discharge requirements, appeal pending rules, revised intent, and documentation risks
- Pt 2: Discharge planning process and regulatory expectations for safe, appropriate transitions
- Pt 3: Orientation for transfer/discharge, return rights, discharge summaries, and surveyor focus areas
F628 Transfer and Discharge Process (3‑Part Series)
- Pt 1: Transfer & discharge process requirements, including relocated F‑tags and notice before transfer/discharge
- Pt 2: Additional requirements moved to F628, including notice of bed‑hold policy and readmission rights
- Pt 3: Discharge summary requirements and key reminders about compliant transfer and discharge processes
Need Support Strengthening Your Admissions, Transfer & Discharge Compliance?
Compliance with the F620–F628 requirements is essential to ensuring fair admissions practices, protecting resident rights, and preventing inappropriate transfers or discharges. From reviewing admission agreements and financial practices, to strengthening notice procedures, discharge planning, documentation, and return‑rights processes, CMS Compliance Group’s consultants can help your facility identify vulnerabilities, improve policies and workflows, and enhance overall survey readiness across the entire admissions and transfer/discharge continuum.
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