Medical Subject Headings (MeSH): Skilled Nursing Facilities

Skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) are healthcare centers that provide round-the-clock medical and nursing care to individuals who require a higher level of assistance than can be provided at home or in assisted living facilities. They are often used as a transition between a hospital stay and return to home, or as a long-term care option for individuals with chronic conditions.

SNFs typically provide services such as:

Nursing care and medical management

Physical, occupational, and speech therapy

Wound care

Pain management

Assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs)

Dietary and nutritional support

Social and recreational activities

Admission to a SNF typically requires a physician’s order and is covered by Medicare or Medicaid for certain conditions and time frames. It’s important for individuals and their families to carefully research and compare different SNFs to find one that best meets their needs and preferences.