Random Moment Time Study
What is Random Moment Time Study (RMTS)?
The RMTS is a federally approved, web-based statistically valid method to determine the amount of time participating school staff spend on Medi-Cal covered direct services, administrative activities, outreach, and other school-related or education-based work.
The RMTS system randomly selects specific one-minute moments during each quarter of the school year. If staff is selected, the participant receives a web-based time study asking what they were doing at that exact time. Their response is reviewed and coded to identify whether the activity was related to Medi-Cal services, Medi-Cal administrative activities, or another type of school activity.
Who can participate in RMTS?
A Time Survey Participant is an employee who routinely performs Medi-Cal school health services prescribed in a student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP), Individualized Health and Support Plan (IHSP), Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP), or other qualifying care plan. A TSP may also perform administrative activities that support the delivery of Medi-Cal school health services.
To participate in the time study, a TSP must not be funded entirely through federal sources and/or the Indirect Cost Rate.
How does RMTS work?
When assigned a random moment, a TSP should provide a complete and accurate description of the activity being performed during their assigned one-minute in time. The response should explain:
- What the participant was doing.
- Who was involved, using job titles or roles rather than student names.
- Why the activity was being performed.
- For Direct Service Providers - whether the activity was related to a student’s IEP, IHSP, IFSP, or other qualifying care plan, when applicable.
Complete responses are crucial because they support accurate time-study results and appropriate SMAA claiming for federal reimbursement.
Before participating in the Random Moment Time Study (RMTS), Time Survey Participants receive a training video developed by the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS). The video provides an overview of the RMTS process, explains participant responsibilities, and offers guidance for submitting complete and accurate responses.
Understanding Random Moment Time Study (RMTS): A Training for Time Survey Participants