Skilled nursing facilities explained
Reviewed by the KELN editorial team
Last updated:
A skilled nursing facility (SNF) is a licensed home that provides 24 hour nursing care and therapy. Most nursing homes in the US are certified as skilled nursing facilities by Medicare, Medicaid, or both.
Skilled nursing facility vs nursing home
In everyday use the terms overlap. "Skilled nursing" usually means short-term care after a hospital stay, such as rehab after a hip replacement. "Nursing home" often means long-term custodial care. Many facilities offer both under one roof.
How it differs from assisted living
Assisted living offers help with daily activities but not round-the-clock licensed nursing. Assisted living is not rated by CMS, so it does not appear in this directory.
Certification
- Medicare certification lets a home bill Medicare for short-term skilled stays.
- Medicaid certification lets a home accept Medicaid for long-term care.
- Certified homes are inspected by the state and rated by CMS on Care Compare.
Coverage rules are specific to each person. Speak with the facility, your plan, or a qualified advisor about costs. This guide is general information, not medical or legal advice.