Choosing the Right Nursing Home in Kentucky
When faced with finding the appropriate care for yourself of a loved one, the task of finding the right nursing home in Kentucky can seem impossible. However, there are some great tools available to assist you faced with this situation.
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) offers some great tools when you are looking for the appropriate nursing home to care for yourself or a loved one. The Medicare office has on Nursing Home Important Information allowing you to compare nursing homes that are certified in Medicare and/or Medicaid. A 5 Star Quality Rating System has been implemented which evaluates nursing homes on three crucial areas of importance: Health Inspections, Staffing, and Quality Measures. The rating system offers an individual rating for a nursing home on each of these areas and then offers a combined overall rating.
This rating system can assist you in determining which nursing homes you would like to consider. One of the most important steps you can next take is to visit the nursing homes you are considering. When possible, you also contact your Long-Term Care Ombudsman or State Survey Agency before making a decision. When you visit the nursing home you will be better equipped to discuss any and all questions and concerns your found when viewing the nursing home's rating.
You can also take a Nursing Home Checklist with you on your visit. Some great checklists are available from HHS and the AARP.
Additional Resources:
AARP article: How to Choose a Nursing Home
AARP article: Evaluating Nursing Homes
