There are many issues to consider when you or a loved one is contemplating entering a nursing home. Here is a list of some of the more important matters you may want to consider when selecting a nursing home for a loved one:
What are the facility’s state survey results? (available from National Eldercare Referral Systems (800)571-1918, on the HCFA website: www.medicare.gov/nhcompare/home.asp, and on Pennsylvania Department of Health website: www.health.state.pa.us/facility/map.htm)
How does the facility look, feel, smell? How do the residents look? Are they restrained?
What is included in the activity program?
What is the staff turnover rate?
Is the staffing level adequate? Aside from the “formal tour”, visit in the evening and/or on weekends to check staffing level. How many RNs are on staff and how many are available each shift? What kind of training do “certified nursing assistants” receive?
Is the interaction between staff and residents warm and friendly?
What kind of therapies are available? To residents on Medicaid, if applicable?
What is the home’s daily rate? What is included in that rate? Get a copy of the fee schedule.
What do the residents say about the facility? What do their families say?
Does the facility accept Medicare/Medicaid patients?
What is the percentage of Medicaid patients?
What is the complaint procedure?
Does the facility accept the state pharmaceutical program card? Your managed care plan, if any?
What does the admission agreement say? Is transportation to activities provided?
Is the home located close to family and friends?
Does the home have openings? If not, how long is the waiting list?
If you will use Medicare/Medicaid, are there Medicare/Medicaid beds available?
Is the home able to provide care for any special medical conditions you may have?
How frequently does the nursing home’s medical director visit? Can your doctor visit?
Does the home have smoke detectors, sprinklers, handrails in the hallways and grab bars in the bathrooms?
These are just some of the major issues to be considered. Careful investigation and planning are crucial to insuring proper care of an elderly family member or friend in need of nursing care.
– Cynthia Dixon