Tasks
As an MDS, you will be a part of the development team that helps to ensure that guidelines are being adhered to. The MDS coordinator is responsible for taking care of paperwork and getting it submitted at the time it's needed. The regulations are known to change each year, so staying abreast on this is required.
Features
One of the roles of the MDS professional is to evaluate the nursing skills of the employees that work within the facility. Then create steps that will help them to better do their job. You will need to know and understand the needs of the residents, so it's a good idea to be a registered nurse that is licensed.
Training
In order to become an MDS coordinator, you will need to acquire an associates degree, which takes two years to complete. You can also stay in school for another two years to get a bachelor's degree. You will then have to pass a written exam to become a registered nurse.
Working Knowledge
When you begin to look for work in this field, you will need to have hands on training in the field. Many want candidates to have two years experience in MDS. You can obtain this experience by finding employment within a nursing home as a coordinator.
Salary
The average yearly wage for coordinators in this field is around $69,000.
