State Operations Manual (SOM)
Definition: The CMS guidance document (CMS Pub. 100-07) that provides detailed instructions to state survey agencies on how to conduct surveys, interpret regulations, and apply enforcement remedies. Contains the Interpretive Guidelines for each F-Tag.
In Practice
The SOM is the primary reference for understanding what surveyors are looking for during inspections. The Interpretive Guidelines under each F-Tag provide detailed explanations of what constitutes compliance and noncompliance. Facilities should familiarize themselves with the SOM sections relevant to their most commonly cited areas.