Money moves
CMS Finalizes 2026 SNF Payment Rule With 3.7% Rate Increase
CMS posted the final FY2026 SNF payment update confirming a 3.7% net rate increase, translating to approximately $1.4B in additional Medicare payments to the sector.
Policy watch
Senate HELP Committee Passes SNF Workforce Development Act 19-3
The Senate HELP Committee advanced the SNF Workforce Development Act with a 19-3 vote, moving the $250M training and wage support package to the full Senate.
Heads up
CMS Survey Memo Targets Weekend Staffing Disparities
CMS issued guidance directing surveyors to conduct at least 25% of annual surveys on weekends, aiming to capture facilities that reduce staffing below safe levels on Saturdays and Sundays.
Deal watch
National HealthCare Corporation Acquires 20 Tennessee SNFs for $195M
NHC closed on 20 facilities in its home state of Tennessee for $195M, adding 2,380 beds and reinforcing its position as the state's largest SNF operator.
The bottom line
The 3.7% rate increase is locked in, the workforce bill clears another hurdle, and CMS is sending surveyors on weekends to catch staffing dips.