Categories of Facilities
Nursing Facilities
Nursing Facilities (NFs) provide skilled nursing, rehabilitative, and health-related services. Nursing care is provided 24 hours a day. The services provided are based on an assessment of the resident's needs. NFs are eligible to participate in the Medicaid program.
Skilled
Nursing Facilities
Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs) provide the same services
with increased emphasis on rehabilitative therapies for convalescent patients.
SNFs are eligible to participate in the Medicare and the Medicaid programs.
Facilities that participate in either Medicare or Medicaid must meet the National Fire Protection Association Life Safety Code and federal regulations for long term care facilities. All facilities must meet state licensure requirements, and some facilities may be accredited to provide subacute medical or rehabilitative care.
Residential Care or Assisted Living Facilities
Residential Care or Assisted Living Facilities provide a special combination of residential housing, personalized supportive services and healthcare. These residential settings maximize independence but do not provide skilled nursing care. These facilities services are designed to meet the individual needs of those requiring help with activities of daily living, but do not need the skilled medical care provided in a nursing home.
Understanding
the
types
of services
Understanding the categories of
facilities
Finding and selecting
a nursing facility
Paying for nursing
care