How to Select a Skilled Nursing Facility

If you need rehabilitation therapy and skilled nursing services, nursing centers are excellent choices.

However, few know which features to look for when such care becomes necessary. Here are some guidelines to help you make the right selection.

Research first, then plan a personal visit

Choosing a nursing center for yourself or your loved one is a very important decision. Take time to discuss the issues thoroughly with the person involved and his personal physician. An important consideration in selecting a nursing center is location: how much travel time will be needed for family and friends to visit? This is one of the first determinations that can help you narrow your focus to a short list.

Once you've identified the centers that interest you, contact the admissions office to schedule an appointment for a tour. Ask for a copy of the center's brochures, admission policies, and the patient's bill of rights.

Visit each nursing center on your short list

Visit the nursing center, taking note of travel time and ease of access. Meet with someone from the admissions office or the administrator. While you are touring the center, observe staff interactions with patients. Take time to speak with patients and family members about their experiences. Ask questions.

Considerations in selecting a nursing center

• What services are offered?
• Are families and patients involved in care planning?
• What are the center's staff hiring, training, licensing, and staffing policies?
• What types of accommodations are offered?
• Are there special programs?
• What about the rehabilitation therapy program?
• Can staff describe therapy successes?
• Do patients look well cared for at the center?
• Are staff friendly, caring, and helpful to patients and visitors?
• Are there any strong odors?
• Is the building clean and attractive?
• Will the center accommodate special diets and food preferences? If possible visit the center at mealtime and observe food as well as any assistance being given to patients.
• Check payment policies including insurance, Medicare, and Medicaid.
• Look at inspection reports, especially state surveys.

Narrow your selections and make a choice

Based on your research, the center's location, and your initial impressions, narrow your list and re-visit the centers you're considering. Choose a different time of day for your visit if possible. Talk to admissions staff about the admissions process. Meet with the administrator and key staff to discuss specific concerns, care needs, and personal preferences. Ask to participate in care planning decisions.

Once you've made a selection, visit the center often. Remain involved in your loved one's ongoing care.

Information to bring with you when discussing nursing center placement

• Guardianship papers
• Power of attorney papers
• Advance directives, such as a living will
• Medicare card and insurance card(s)
• Proof of income, such as social security check stub or retirement check
• List of assets
• Name and address of those handling the patient's affairs

You might also want to take with you the Checklist for Choosing a Nursing Center.