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Nursing Homes in Colorado
Out of the 5,758,736 people living in Colorado in 2019, more than 840,000 (14.6%) were aged 65 or older. During the same year, just over 16,000 people lived in certified nursing facilities. Colorado has plenty to offer older adults in need of skilled nursing and other medical services. The Centennial State has 66 hospitals with a total of 8,132 staffed beds, along with 223 certified nursing facilities, giving residents access to a wide network of physicians and other healthcare providers.
Nursing homes, also known as skilled nursing facilities, provide a variety of medical and personal services to older adults who are unable to live independently. In Colorado, nursing home care costs an average of $8,517 per month for a semiprivate room and $9,733 per month for a private room.
This guide contains detailed information to help older adults and their loved ones understand their options for long-term care. It includes an overview of nursing home costs, a list of agencies that provide information and referrals to relevant resources, and an overview of the regulations Colorado nursing homes must follow.
Find Options Near You
The Cost of Nursing Home Care in Colorado
When compared to nearby states, Colorado is the most expensive when it comes to nursing home care. The average cost of care in the Centennial State, which comes in at $8,517 per month for a semiprivate room, also exceeds the national average of $7,756. Average costs vary based on several factors, including the location of the facility and the combination of services and amenities provided. With an average of $5,323 per month, Oklahoma has the lowest cost in the region by far. Aside from Colorado, New Mexico has one of the highest average costs at $7,406 per month. Kansas and Utah fall somewhere in the middle with average monthly costs of $6,692 and $6,388 per month, respectively.
The cost of nursing home care ranges from just over $8,000 to more than $9,000 per month in Colorado’s most populous cities. With an average cost of $9,064 per month, Denver is the most expensive; Boulder isn’t far behind at $9,049. Fort Collins comes in at $8,971, while Pueblo and Colorado Springs are at the lower end of the range with average costs of $8,425 and $8,289 per month, respectively.
Colorado Springs
$8289
Pueblo
$8425
Fort Collins
$8971
Boulder
$9049
Denver
$9064
Several types of care are available to Colorado seniors, including assisted living, adult day care, nursing home care and in-home care services. The cost of these services varies based on the provider and the amount of care provided. With monthly costs averaging $1,625 in Colorado, adult day care is the least expensive. Assisted living facilities offer assistance with some activities, but they don’t provide around-the-clock medical care, so they cost an average of $4,575 per month in Colorado. In-home care eliminates the expense of room and board; as a result, homemaker services and home health care services in Colorado have an average cost of $5,339. Nursing home care is the most expensive option, averaging $8,517 per month for a semiprivate room and $9,733 for a private room.
Nursing home (semiprivate room)
$8517
Nursing home (private room)
$9733
Adult day care
$1625
Assisted living
$4575
Home health care
$5339
Homemaker services
$5339
Does Medicaid Cover Nursing Home Care in Colorado?
In Colorado, there are over 1.5 million individuals and families enrolled in Medicaid. The program covers the cost of nursing care and medically related social services, as well as various rehabilitation therapies. Living accommodations and housekeeping fees are also paid for by Medicaid, in addition to on-site visits with a physician and prescription medications.
There are over 200 nursing homes located throughout the state, many of which accept Medicaid. In addition to nursing home care, Medicaid can also cover the cost of community-based care services and home-based services for qualifying individuals. As an alternative to institutionalized care, the state offers Medicaid home and community-based services (HCBS) waivers for seniors who want to age in place in the comfort of their own home.
Medicaid Eligibility in Colorado
For single applicants, the monthly income limit is $2,742 and they can have no more than $2,000 in assets. If one spouse is applying from a two-person household, the income limits are the same; however, under the Spousal Impoverishment Act, the non-applicant spouse can have up to $148,620 in assets. Couples who are applying together can have a monthly income of no more than $5,484 and $4,000 in assets if applying for separate rooms or $4,000 if applying for a shared room.
2022 Medicaid Income Limits for Seniors in Colorado
| Household Size | Number of Applicants | Income Limits Per Year* | Asset Limits: Applicant(s) | Asset Limits: Non-Applicants |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| One Person | 1 | $32,904 | $2,000 | |
| Two Person | 1 | $32,904** | $2,000 | $148,620 |
| Two Person | 2 | $65,808*** | $4,000 |
*All monthly income except for a $95.97/mo. personal needs allowance and Medicare premiums must be paid to the facility as a share of cost. There may also be a monthly needs allowance for a non-applicant spouse, .
**Income limit is for applicant only.
***Asset limit is $4,000 per couple if sharing a room and $3,000 if in separate rooms.
In addition to the financial requirements, seniors must also need skilled nursing-level care and meet a few other requirements, such as proof of age. Other qualifications include:
- Proof of U.S. citizenship
- Military discharge status
- Proof of residence in Colorado
How to Apply for Medicaid in Colorado
Seniors and loved ones can apply for Medicaid using the Health First Colorado website. Paper applications can be printed from the Apply by Mail webpage. Individuals can also apply over the phone at (800) 221-3943,or in-person at a local county office or an application assistance office. Applicants should make sure they have all the appropriate documents prepared beforehand to prevent the application from being delayed. It can take up to three weeks longer to amend and reprocess a corrected application.
Information You Will Need:
- Birth certificate
- Medicare cards
- Social security card, or green card for applicants born outside the United States
- Copies of life insurance policies
- Proof of bank statements for the previous 60 months from the date on the application
- Proof of earned and unearned income from the previous 60 months
- Car registration and insurance documents
- Property deeds and Proof of any real properties sold or transferred in the previous 60 months
- Preneed burial contract
- Proof of pension, including a letter of verification from the provider
- VA discharge papers (such as DD 214), for veterans applicants
- Any other documents that support the applicant’s claim
Additional Medicaid Support & Resource in Colorado
Families applying for Medicaid may also benefit from some of the resources listed below. For those who need extra help, professional planners can be found through Medicaid Planning Assistance. Additionally, seniors who qualify for HCBS waivers have the option of receiving care services in their home, instead of long-term care facilities.
| Resource | Contact | Service |
|---|---|---|
| Colorado Medicaid In-Home Support Services | (800) 221-3943 | In-Home Support Services is a Medicaid program for seniors who need personal care and home maintenance services. Companion and homemaking services are provided by agency-certified professionals, including nursing staff. Homemakers can assist with cleaning and laundry, as well as preparing meals. Medicaid in-home support services are available through the Elderly, Blind, and Disabled Waiver. |
| Health First Colorado | (800) 221-3943 | Health First Colorado is the state's Medicaid program. Available in English and Spanish, the website has links for finding local providers and allows individuals to apply using their online portal or traditional methods. Applicants can find a plethora of information about what the program covers and how to qualify. They can also download the applications, available for iOS and Android, to update their information and view their member ID cards. |
| Colorado Medicare Savings Programs | (303) 866-5402 | Medicare Savings Programs are available to low-income seniors and families who need assistance with out-of-pocket costs from Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance). Qualifying individuals are covered whether they pay premiums or deductibles. The program is based on a tier system to provide as much savings as the beneficiary needs. |
| Medicaid Planning Assistance | Online Only | The Medicaid Planning Assistance website has an eligibility guide for Medicaid programs in each state and state-funded HCBS waivers. Using the website’s eligibility tool, seniors and families can determine their needs and find the appropriate Medicaid planner. Individuals can also find articles about how VA and Medicare benefits work with Medicaid and other factors of long-term care, such as power of attorney and estate planning. |
| Benefits.gov | (303) 866-2993 | Benefits.gov is the United States government's official website for finding active local and state resources that can help seniors with community-based long-term care services and home safety modifications for those who want to age in place at home. Using the Benefits Eligibility Screening Tool from the Social Security Administration, users can determine if they qualify for Medicaid and other federally funded benefits, including Social Security income. |
Does Medicare Cover Nursing Home Care in Colorado?
Medicare provides limited coverage for short-term stays in a skilled nursing facility following a hospital stay, but seniors must meet a number of specific requirements. This benefit is available to beneficiaries who have been hospitalized for at least three days, excluding the date of discharge, so it’s most valuable for those who are recovering from an injury, illness or surgery.
Once seniors meet the hospitalization requirement, Medicare will pay for up to 100 days of skilled nursing per benefit period. The first 20 days are covered in full. Starting on day 21, beneficiaries must pay a daily coinsurance rate. After day 100, seniors are responsible for the entire cost.
What Does Medicare Cover?
Medicare covers a number of specific services, including:
- Meals
- A semiprivate room
- Medications
- Skilled nursing
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Speech therapy
- Audiologist care
- Medical supplies
- Medical social services
- Nutritional counseling
- Ambulance transportation
What Isn’t Covered by Medicare?
Medicare does not cover long-term custodial care that addresses seniors’ day-to-day needs. This includes help with daily activities, such as bathing, dressing and using medical equipment.
For more information about Medicare and when it covers Nursing Home Care, read our Guide to Nursing Homes.
Medicare Support and Resources in Colorado
While Medicare doesn’t cover long-term care, there are resources for qualifying Medicare beneficiaries to cover out-of-pocket expenses. Additionally, seniors and families can use the official Medicare website to find professional insurance counselors and manage their benefits.
| Resource | Contact | Service |
|---|---|---|
| Colorado State Health Insurance Assistance Program | (888) 696-7213 | The Colorado State Health Insurance Assistance Program provides free and unbiased Medicare counseling for seniors and their caregivers. In addition to explaining supplemental coverage options, counselors can also give group presentations about the basics of Original Medicare and the application process. Qualifying seniors can apply for financial assistance to cover out-of-pocket costs, such as prescription medications and medical supplies. |
| Colorado Department of Health — Office of Adult and Disability Services | (303) 866-5700 | Supervised by the state and administered by the county, the Office of Adult and Disability Services has programs designed to promote the health and independence of seniors. The agency offers caregiver support and legal assistance for a wide range of civil matters, such as housing and income. Nutritional services include congregate and home-delivered meals, along with counseling services from a registered dietitian. |
| BenefitsCheckUp | (800) 794-6559 | Available in English and Spanish, BenefitsCheckUp helps individuals find local resources after answering a short questionnaire to assess their needs and eligibility. Provided by the National Council on Aging, the website offers access to over 2,500 federal and state programs, such as tax relief programs and income assistance. Other benefits include pension assistance and free or low-cost transportation programs. |
| Medicare.gov | (800) 633-4227 | The official Medicare website offers links to local Medicare professionals and the free “Medicare and You” handbook. Users can use their online accounts to apply for Medicare benefits and enroll in plans. Search results from the website’s Medicare-registered provider and medical equipment supplier directory tools are provided by the National Suppliers Clearinghouse (NSC) and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). |
Other Financial Assistance Options for Nursing Home Care in Colorado
While Medicaid and Medicare are two of the most common programs used to pay for Nursing Home Care, there are other financial assistance options available, depending on your unique situation.
| How To Apply | How It Works | |
|---|---|---|
| Aid and Attendance | Learn more and apply online at va.gov. | Veterans who receive a VA pension may also be eligible for the Aid and Attendance benefit, a monthly cash allowance that veterans receive in addition to their standard pension amount. The benefit is intended for veterans in need of long-term care services and may be used towards paying for skilled nursing care. |
| Reverse Mortgages | Learn more about your options and how to apply at ftc.gov | If you own a home, you may be able to use a reverse mortgage to help pay for nursing care. Reverse mortgages are loans that one can take out against the value of their home, essentially converting some of the home's equity into cash. Reverse mortgage loans do need to be repaid with interest, typically within 12 months of receiving the loan. |
| Long-Term Care (LTC) Insurance | Learn more about Long-Term Care Insurance and how to apply for a policy at acl.gov. | Seniors who already have long-term care insurance may be able to use it to pay for skilled nursing care. Most policies cover at least a portion of the cost, but it depends on the specific policy terms. Note that older adults who are already in need of skilled nursing care will not typically be eligible to sign up for a LTC insurance policy. |
Free and Low-Cost Resources for Seniors in Colorado
There are many resources in Colorado that assist seniors in their retirement. Caring.com has compiled information on local organizations, programs and agencies and categorized them into care types for easy reference.
Area Agency on Aging
Retirees can find support and advice on various senior-related issues from their local Area Agency on Aging. The agency provides advice on topics such as financial assistance programs, in-home care and long-term care planning. It also connects seniors and caregivers with community-based resources.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Colorado Area Agencies on Aging | The Area Agencies on Aging in Colorado provide information on local resources and programs for older adults throughout the state. The aim of the agencies is to help seniors remain as independent as possible while receiving the assistance they need to live purposeful lives. Services provided by the AAAs include case management, transportation and health screenings. AAAs offer multiple programs depending on the specific needs of individuals, including adult day programs and congregate and home-delivered meals. |
Cash Assistance Programs
Cash assistance programs in Colorado provide financial support to help low-income retirees remain in their own homes for as long as possible. Seniors and caregivers can apply for tax rebates and reductions, discounts on vital services and help covering the cost of heating and cooling their home.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Colorado Lifeline Program | 800-234-9473 | The LifeLine Program offers a discount on landline or mobile telephone service, ensuring that participants can stay in contact with loved ones. |
| Colorado Old Age Pension | The Old Age Pension is a financial assistance program that pays beneficiaries up to $771 per month. You can use these funds to pay for any senior living or senior care services you may need. If you qualify for the Old Age Pension, you may also be eligible for the Health Care Program, which provides medical coverage for some seniors who do not qualify for Medicaid. |
Financial Assistance for Senior Care and Senior Living
Whether living in their own home or in a senior living community, Colorado seniors can find financial assistance from numerous local resources. These organizations help residents cover some of the costs associated with in-home or long-term care and connect them with other helpful community-based resources.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Colorado Program of All-Inclusive Care For the Elderly (PACE) | The Program of All-Inclusive Care For the Elderly is a managed Medicaid program that provides health care at designated facilities, but it also covers some care services seniors can get at home. These include skilled nursing, personal care, transportation and physical and occupational therapies. A PACE home care coordinator can arrange for the delivery of support services you need. The program pays for all services that are covered under Medicare and Colorado's Medicaid plan. |
Food Assistance Programs
Local organizations help ensure elderly citizens have a balanced diet and receive essential vitamins and minerals to remain healthy. Through nutrition programs, congregate meals, home-delivered meals and food pantries, these programs help Colorado seniors afford the nutritious food they need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Colorado Meals on Wheels | Colorado Meals on Wheels provides home-delivered meals to homebound seniors aged 60 and older throughout the state. The organization doesn't charge for the meals but asks seniors to contribute what they can afford when possible. Volunteers deliver hot, nutritious meals low in cholesterol and fat to promote a healthy lifestyle, and they visit briefly to ensure the individual is safe. The program also offers nutrition education services for interested seniors, helping them learn about a well-balanced diet. | |
| Colorado Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | 855-855-4626 | Colorado Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program provides funds for seniors to use to buy food. SNAP provides electronic benefit transfer cards that receive monthly funds that low-income seniors can use to purchase food. To apply, seniors need proof of their income status and family size. Colorado SNAP serves the entire state. |
| Colorado Volunteers of America Meals on Wheels | 720-501-3367 | Meals on Wheels is a national organization that's delivered thousands of meals to seniors in Colorado who are unable to prepare or obtain their own food. In addition to serving the nutritional needs of countless older adults in the state, volunteers provide a valuable service by checking in on the health and well-being of isolated seniors. |
| Colorado Works (TANF) | 855-855-4626 | Colorado Works operates as the state's Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program. It helps low-income seniors with energy bills and heating and cooling repairs. It also includes the Old Age Pension program, which provides financial assistance and help with health care costs. Income and residency requirements apply. Benefits can last up to 60 months. |
Free Used Medical Equipment
Due to the high cost of purchasing new medical equipment, several organizations in Colorado collect lightly used medical devices such as wheelchairs, ramps and walkers and distribute them to local seniors and residents in need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Colorado Hospital Equipment Lending Program | 720-598-6126 | The Assistance League of Denver loans wheelchairs, bath benches, walkers and other medical equipment to those in need at no cost to the borrower. You are expected to return all equipment once you're finished using it. |
| Colorado South Metro Medical Equipment Closet | 720-443-2013 | This equipment closet provides short-term loans of medical equipment to adults recovering from an injury, injury or illness. The max term of a loan is 3 months. |
| Colorado Summit County Senior Services - DME Loan Closet | 970-668-2952 | The program loans out walkers, crutches, wheelchairs commodes and other durable medical equipment on a short-term basis. The loan closet is located within the Community & Senior Center. |
| Colorado Tri-Lakes Care Loan Closet | 719-481-4864 | The Tri-Lakes Care Neighborhood Nurse Center loans out walkers, canes, non-powered wheelchairs, crutches and toilet seat risers at no cost to the borrower. All loaned equipment is donated by members of the community. |
Health Insurance & Prescription Drug Coverage for Seniors
Colorado seniors who meet certain income criteria can apply to local resources to help them pay for prescription drugs. Eligible residents can also receive assistance through health insurance and other programs to access free or discounted medical services.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Colorado Old Age Pension Health and Medical Care Program | 800-221-3943 | The Medical Care Program provides limited health care services for older adults who do not qualify for a Health First Colorado plan. It includes inpatient and outpatient hospital services, home health care, surgical dental services, durable medical equipment and medical transportation. The Old Age Pension also pays for limited pharmaceuticals. This program is known by a few different names: Modified Medical Plan, State Medical Program and the OAP State Only Program. |
Home Repair and Modifications
Seniors and those with disabilities can access a variety of local resources to help them pay for home repairs and modifications. Programs in Colorado have different eligibility criteria and often assist retirees by providing grants or loans.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Colorado Brothers Redevelopment | 303-202-6340 | This non-profit organization assists seniors by helping them to apply federal and social benefits. They can also help with financial planning, reverse mortgages and creating living wills. Additionally, members of the group volunteer to help seniors with housework, yard work, home repairs and running errands. All of these services are aimed at helping seniors to successfully age in place. There is no charge for the services. |
| Colorado Weatherization Assistance Program | Your local weatherization provider can help you save money on your heating and cooling bills by providing free energy conservation solutions. Experts will perform an energy audit at your property and then recommend services at no cost, including infiltration sealing, furnace repair, LED light installation, solar energy and air source heat pumps. |
Legal Resources
Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal services to Colorado seniors. Older adults can access advice on issues such as estate planning, living wills and power of attorney. Some firms also act as long-term care ombudsmen, advocating for the rights of seniors in senior living communities.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Colorado Legal Assistance for Older Adults | Seniors can receive legal services through this department, which protects seniors' rights and ensures they understand those rights. Advocacy and access to representation is also available. | |
| Colorado Legal Services | Colorado Legal Services (CLS) offers free legal assistance to seniors aged 60 and older if they meet certain income, asset and legal problem requirements. CLS may take on cases that align with the firm's priorities regardless of income, if the financial and staffing resources are available. Example cases include family law, consumer debt, tax litigation and problems with SSI disbursement or other government benefits. Online, phone and walk-in applications are welcome. | |
| Colorado Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program | 719-471-2096 | The Colorado Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program assists seniors living in long-term care communities such as assisted living facilities. They serve as advocates who regularly visit residents and investigate any complaints and claims of abuse, neglect or inadequate care. |
Senior Centers
Senior centers in Colorado bring together residents through recreational activities and events. Many also offer advice and support on senior issues, run wellness and nutrition programs, and connect older adults with other resources in the local area.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Colorado 2-1-1 | 866-760-6489 | Call 2-1-1 to access many senior services. Long-term care services and information are available through this service, along with many other disability and aging resources. The website can also help direct seniors and caregivers to the right resources for their needs. |
Senior Engagement
Senior engagement resources and programs in Colorado help older adults remain active and ensure they contribute to the community. Resources include wellness programs, volunteer opportunities, support groups and organizations that help residents connect with the community to live fulfilling lives.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Alzheimer's Association Colorado Chapter | The Alzheimer's Association advocates for memory care recipients and their families. In addition, this association raises funds for research and raises awareness of Alzheimer's disease. Through the Colorado chapter, seniors can receive local services, resources and referrals. | |
| Colorado Benefits in Action | 888-496-4252 | Benefits in Action is a nonprofit organization designed to provide health insurance navigation. A counselor from the program will spend time with seniors and their caregivers, explaining the various state health care insurance plans and helping seniors to find the best option for their particular situation. Counselors can assist seniors in applying for health care insurance and any benefits they're eligible for. Additionally, the counselors can explain financial assistance options available for seniors needing to make the move to nursing home care. |
Social Security Offices
Social Security offices in Colorado help seniors and disabled people access the benefits they're entitled to. Older adults can contact their local office for information about receiving retirement benefits, disability allowance and Supplemental Security Income.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Colorado Social Security | Social Security is a source of income available to retirees and people who can no longer work because of a disability. The money for Social Security comes from a payroll tax levied on employers, employees and self-employed individuals. When you retire, you'll receive monthly payments based on how much you earned when you were working. |
Tax Assistance
Seniors can apply for tax assistance from several Colorado resources. Elderly residents and those with disabilities could be eligible for tax exemptions on medical expenses, reductions on property tax and other tax assistance programs.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Colorado Senior Property Tax Exemption | 303-660-7450 | This tax savings program exempts up to $100,000 of your home's value from your exemption will be %50 or property taxes. |
Veteran's Services
Colorado retirees who have served in the U.S. military can find support from local veteran services. These offices and organizations help vets access the benefits they're eligible for and provide advice and information on a variety of issues.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Colorado VA Benefits and Health Care | Colorado's VA Benefits and Health Care ensures seniors who've served in the nation's military have access to the essential programs and services they are entitled to. Veterans who qualify receive health care, counseling, education, job opportunities and housing placement. The agency also helps seniors obtain compensation and benefits and offers access to military records. Families of veterans may receive assistance with burial and survivor benefits. |
Nursing Home Laws and Regulations in Colorado
| Topic | Rule |
|---|---|
| Licensing Requirements | Each private nursing home in Colorado must obtain a license to operate from the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment. Governmental facilities must obtain a certificate of compliance. Facilities with more than one location must obtain a separate license for each location. To obtain a license, facility administrators must submit a completed application and licensing fee, schedule an inspection and demonstrate that the facility is in compliance with all relevant regulations. |
| Staffing Requirements | Every facility must have a staffing plan with details on the distribution of personnel and an explanation of how personnel will be replaced if they leave the facility. Each facility must also have a medical director who's responsible for acting as a liaison between the nursing home and outside medical providers. The facility administrator must have an active Colorado nursing home administrator license in good standing. |
| Staff Training Requirements | Nursing homes must provide on-the-job training to ensure employees have the knowledge and skills needed to provide quality care to residents. All staff members must receive annual training on topics such as infection control, accident prevention, fire safety, resident rights, disaster preparedness and person-centered care, among others. The facility must document all completed training and retain the records. |
| Admission Restrictions | SNFs are only permitted to admit residents whose needs can be met with the facility's existing services. A new resident can't be admitted unless a standard resident bedroom is available. State law prohibits SNFs from putting more than four residents in one room. |
| Care Planning Requirements | Each resident must have a care plan developed to address his or her individual medical and psychosocial needs. Staff members must also identify residents with an elevated risk of accidents and develop a care plan with strategies for preventing injury. |
| Dietary and Nutritional Services Requirements | SNFs must give residents some flexibility on when to eat their main meals. All meals must be well-balanced, appealing and nutritious. Meals must also meet any special dietary requirements recommended by a medical professional, such as low-carb meals for diabetics. Each facility must have a registered dietitian in charge of its dietary services. |
| Specialized Rehabilitative Services | Residents must receive the rehabilitative care they need to maintain their highest possible levels of independence and well-being. Care plans must document any rehabilitative needs and outline how those needs will be met by staff members. |
| Medication and Pharmaceutical Services | Medications must only be administered when ordered by a physician or other licensed medical practitioner. Staff members are required to verify the identification of each medication when it's prepared as well as when it's administered. Staff members must document the resident's name, the name of the medication, the dosage, the route of administration and the reason for giving the medication each time medication is administered. Each facility must have a licensed pharmacist oversee its pharmaceutical services. |
| Activities Requirements | To preserve quality of life, residents of SNFs must be given some degree of choice in their activities. Within 21 days of a resident's arrival, staff members must develop an activities care plan designed to meet the new resident's unique needs. |
| Infection Control Requirements | Every facility must have an infection control program that includes annual training on infection prevention for all staff members. Facilities must also have written policies regarding the transmission of communicable diseases. Policies should address topics such as the handling of soiled linens, the use of gloves when handling soiled items and proper disposal of medical waste. |
| Medicaid Coverage | Health First Colorado covers SNF care for seniors who meet income and other eligibility requirements. For Medicaid to cover their long-term care costs, seniors must also be assessed as needing 24-hour nursing care. |
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