Skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) are expected to get a reprieve from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ (CMS’) annual rulemaking on Medicare payment changes for the coming fiscal year.

Sources at the agency have said that instead of publishing a proposed rule for fiscal year 2013, CMS will issue an Update Notice for the SNF Prospective Payment System. The notice, which will be published by July 31, is expected to include a SNF market basket update of about 1.8 percent, with no other policy changes.

“CMS recognizes the struggles we have undergone and the importance of returning stability to the profession,” said Gov. Mark Parkinson, American Health Care Association (AHCA) president and chief executive officer.

AHCA has been working closely with CMS on the 2013 payment rule since last fall, explaining the financial predicament of members and seeking a greater level of understanding between the agency and the long term care profession. ​​