Yes, multiple goals can be assigned the same priority level (e.g., “high”), but the organization must still clarify the relative importance of each goal within the same assigned level. The intent of prioritization is to show how goals compare to one another in terms of urgency or importance.
For example, if three goals are all marked “high,” the organization must indicate which of those is the highest priority, second highest, and so on.
Update Notice:
This FAQ is being updated to clarify implementation expectations.
Organizations will have 90 days to implement the guidance outlined in this FAQ.
This means that organizations must adhere to the updated FAQ for surveys conducted on or after January 1, 2026.
Prior to January 1, 2026, organizations may continue to prioritize goals and reporting frequencies as they have in the past.
Applicable Standards:
HPA: PHM 5, Element E
MBHO: QI 8, Element I
CM: CM 4, Element B
CM-LTSS: LTSS 3, Element C
CM_LTSS 2026