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Nursing Homes in Utah
Utah is home to just over 3.2 million residents, and that number includes 365,198 seniors aged 65 and older. By the year 2065, the University of Utah projects that one in five Utahns will be a senior, and many of those will require long-term care services such as adult day care, in-home health care or skilled nursing care.
Utah seniors with complex medical needs who require 24/7 support and medical monitoring can access that level of care in a nursing home. Also known as skilled nursing facilities, nursing homes are highly regulated, specialized institutions that provide around-the-clock medical and nonmedical assistance. Nursing home services also include room and board, recreational programming, and in some facilities, rehabilitation services such as speech, occupational or physical therapy.
The average monthly cost of nursing home care in Utah is $6,388 for a semiprivate room, and $8,365 for a private room. This guide covers nursing home costs throughout Utah, and how they compare to the cost of other long-term care services. There’s also an overview of the financial aid programs that help seniors pay for nursing home care, a summary of nursing home regulations in Utah, and a list of free resources for seniors.
Find Options Near You
The Cost of Nursing Home Care in Utah
According to Genworth Financial’s 2020 Cost of Care Survey, the average monthly cost of semiprivate nursing home care in Utah is $6,388. Rates in Utah are well below the national average of $7,756, and lower than rates in every neighboring state. In Arizona, seniors can expect to pay $6,844 per month for semiprivate nursing home care, while the statewide average rate jumps to $8,258 in Wyoming, and $8,517 in Colorado. Costs are even higher in Idaho at $8,669, and in Nevada, which has the highest rates of all states that border Utah, seniors pay an average of $9,262 per month.
Within Utah, rates range from a low of $5,627 in Logan to a high of $7,254 in Ogden. Average nursing home costs are the same in Provo and St. George, where semiprivate care rates run around $6,388 per month, while rates in the state capitol, Salt Lake City, average $6,996 per month.
Logan
$5627
Provo
$6388
St. George
$6388
Salt Lake City
$6996
Ogden
$7254
Nursing homes provide around-the-clock medical care, recreational programming and supervision in a specialized institutional setting. Seniors who can be safely supported in a less-restrictive setting may find that the level of care offered in an assisted living facility meets their needs, while those who want to age in place in their own homes can seek support from a homemaker or home health aide. Adult day health care services are another option for seniors, as this type of care includes nonmedical care in a community setting during regular business hours. Average costs for long-term care in Utah start at $1,928 per month for adult day health care, while in-home care ranges from $4,814 for homemaker services to $4,957 for a home health aide. Residential care in an assisted living facility costs an average of $3,400 per month, which is $2,988 less than semiprivate nursing home care.
Adult Day Health Care
$1928
Assisted Living Care
$3400
Homemaker Services
$4814
Home Health Aide
$4957
Nursing Home Care
$6388
Does Medicaid Cover Nursing Home Care in Utah?
Over 400,000 Utah residents are enrolled in Medicaid, which accounts for around 11.4% of senior citizens aged 65 or over. For seniors living in nursing homes in Utah, Medicaid can help cover the costs of room and board, nursing care, medical supplies, transportation to medical appointments, dietary supplements and non-prescription pharmacy items.
In Utah, 97 nursing homes are certified to accept Medicare and Medicaid. Each facility has an average of 87 beds, with currently over 5,000 residents across the state. Nursing facilities provide 24/7 hospital-level medical care that is specialized to the needs of each resident. The Utah Long Term Care Medicaid program can help to pay for nursing home fees for financially and medically eligible applicants. Some residents may be eligible for one of the Waiver Programs that help seniors stay at home as long as possible or in another community setting where they can live independently instead of being in a nursing home.
Medicaid Eligibility in Utah
To be eligible for Medicaid, applicants must meet a number of medical and financial criteria. Seniors who receive the SSI (Supplemental Security Income) or Social Security Disability benefits are deemed to meet the eligibility requirements for Medicaid.
The financial requirements include income and asset limits. For a one-person household, there is no income limit, and there is an asset limit of $2,000. For a two-person household where only one person is applying, there is no income limit, and there is an asset limit of $2,000 for the applicant and $148,620 for the non-applicant due to the Spousal Impoverishment Act. For a two-person household where both people are applying, there is no income limit, and there is an asset limit of $4,000 ($2,000 per spouse).
| Household Size | Number of Applicants | Income Limits Per Year* | Asset Limits: Applicant(s) | Asset Limits: Non-Applicants |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| One Person | 1 | No set income limit | $2,000 | |
| Two People | 1 | No set income limit | $2,000 | $148,620 |
| Two People | 2 | No set income limit | $4,000** |
*Except for a $45/mo. personal needs allowance, Medicare premiums and possibly a spousal income allowance for a non-applicant spouse, all of a recipient's monthly income must be put toward the cost of nursing home care.
**Assets are limited to $2,000 per spouse
Other eligibility requirements for qualifying for Medicaid in Utah include the following. The applicant must:
- Be a resident of Utah
- Be aged 65 or older or blind or disabled
- Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
How To Apply for Medicaid in Utah
Seniors in Utah can apply for Medicaid online via myCase, where they need to download and submit a completed paper application. Alternatively, they can apply in person at their local Department of Workforce Services (DWS) Office or by mail by sending their application to P.O. Box 143245, Salt Lake City, UT 84114-3245. To receive assistance, seniors can call the DWS office on (866) 435-7414 or go into their local Area Agency on Aging office.
Applicants should ensure they meet all eligibility requirements before applying, as this could slow down their application or lead to refusal.
Information You Will Need:
- Social Security and Medicare cards
- Proof of identity and citizenship
- Proof of total income for applicant and spouse
- Proof of assets owned by applicant or their spouse, including any assets where they are joint owner, signer or trustee
- Copies of medical bills owed or just paid
Additional Medicaid Support & Resources in Utah
The following list contains free resources that can assist seniors and their families when going through the often complicated process of applying for Medicare.
| Resource | Contact | Services |
|---|---|---|
| Benefits.gov | (800) 662-9651 | Benefits.org is a government website that offers basic information about Medicaid in the state of Utah. It includes information such as what Medicaid is, who is eligible for it and who to contact to apply. It also outlines the maximum income allowances to be eligible. |
| Area Agency on Aging | (801) 213-4156 | The Area Agency on Aging in Utah provides state, regional and local programs to assist seniors with Medicare and Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP) enrollment and with any questions about Medicaid and the application process. |
| Utah Senior Planning | (801) 546-9556 | Utah Senior Planning provides seniors and their families with financial advice and information. Its services include free consultations to see if seniors are eligible for Medicaid and access to a free nursing home Medicaid pre-approval letter. |
Does Medicare Cover Nursing Home Care in Utah?
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 & Resources in Utah
Seniors who are thinking about nursing home care as an option may worry about whether Medicare covers the costs. Health insurance can provide some initial assistance to support seniors and their families. The following list provides a list of resources and support services to help families decide what is the best option for them.
| Resource | Contact | Service |
|---|---|---|
| The State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs) | (800) 541-7735 | The Health Division of the Utah Insurance Department works with the Utah Division of Aging and Adult Services to provide SHIPs. The program offers local Medicare and insurance counseling to eligible seniors and their families. It empowers and educates families on health insurance and Medicare options through counseling and training services. |
| Medicare.gov | (800) 633-4227 | Medicare.gov is a government website that offers 24/7 information about Medicare health care programs and useful information specific to Utah residents. A live chat option lets seniors speak with trained advisors who can offer free support and advice. |
| Utah Insurance Department | (801) 957-9200 | The Utah Insurance Department assists Utah residents with Medicare and health insurance. A phone number is available for advice Monday through Friday, and online resources can be accessed 24/7. |
Other Financial Assistance Options for Nursing Home Care in Utah
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.
| Name | 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 Utah
There are many resources in Utah 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Utah Area Agencies on Aging | The Utah Department of Health and Human Services Area Agencies on Aging offer services and programs to seniors in the state while also looking out for their well-being. Services range from legal guidance to healthy meals and nutrition programs. Caregivers can also access beneficial support, such as counseling, dementia education and respite care. Seniors can learn how to protect themselves against Medicare fraud and financial exploitation, receive Medicare assistance with insurance counseling and find in-home services to remain independent. | |
| Utah Division of Aging and Adult Services | 800-541-7735 | The Utah Division of Aging and Adult Services offers multiple resources for Utah seniors. Meal programs include food and nutrition education, Meals on Wheels deliveries and community lunches at senior centers throughout the state. The organization also offers seniors 60 years and older without reliable transportation rides to medical offices, dental checkups and personal care appointments. In-home services are also available for low-income seniors and include assistance with the activities of daily living and short-term respite care. |
Cash Assistance Programs
Cash assistance programs in Utah 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Utah 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. |
Financial Assistance for Senior Care and Senior Living
Whether living in their own home or in a senior living community, Utah 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Utah Aging Waiver | 801-538-3910 | The Utah Aging Waiver Program provides supportive services to seniors aged 65 and older, helping them live as independently as possible in their homes or in community-based settings. Supervised by the Division of Aging and Adult Services, the program may cover case management, community living services, homemaker assistance, nonmedical transportation and other services based on individual assessments. Seniors who require care levels offered by a nursing facility and meet financial eligibility requirements for Medicaid can qualify for this program. |
| Utah Housing Liaison Program | 385-468-3200 | The Utah Housing Liaison Program helps older adults find suitable housing or make emergency rent payments to remain in their existing homes. In addition to providing many informational resources for the state's seniors, the Utah Housing Liaison works directly with individuals, providing counseling based on their unique circumstances and referrals to other organizations that might prove helpful. The program also assists with housing applications, helping seniors secure accommodations that meet their needs. |
| Utah Physical Disabilities Waiver | 801-538-4200 | The Physical Disabilities Waiver in Utah helps seniors with physical disabilities live independently in their own homes or communities. The waiver provides supportive services, including personal assistance, access to specialized medical equipment and a personal emergency response system. Applicants must have physical impairments arising from the functional loss of two or more limbs, need 14 hours per week of assistance and meet Medicaid eligibility requirements. This waiver has limited funding and successful applicants will be placed on a waiting list. |
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 Utah seniors afford the nutritious food they need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Utah Meals on Wheels | Utah Meals on Wheels operates independently run programs statewide that provide seniors with nutritious meals for free or low cost. Eligibility is open to adults age 60 and over. Seniors can enjoy their meals in a communal setting, such as the local senior center, or have fresh meals delivered directly to their door. The included safety checks help prevent falls, accidents or emergencies. Additional support services are available and may include pet meal delivery and emergency meal delivery during bad weather. | |
| Utah Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | SNAP, or the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, is a national nutrition program with an office in Salt Lake City, UT, offering eligible applicants help with purchasing food. Benefits are typically disbursed monthly onto an electronic benefits (EBT) card. Benefits may be used to buy all types of unprepared food, including meats, fruits and vegetables, breads and dairy products. Elderly households must meet income requirements. |
Financial Assistance for Senior Living
Low-income elderly individuals in senior living communities can access financial assistance through local-run programs. These Utah resources offer advice, guidance and support to help older adults pay for the services offered by long-term care providers.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Utah New Choices Waiver | 801-538-6155 | The New Choices Waiver is a program intended to help individuals living in a Utah-registered nursing facility or medical institution move into a community-based setting. Individuals accepted into the program are eligible for Medicaid-expanded support services based on their needs to help with community living. Services include adult day care, homemaker and chore services, transportation, respite care and home-delivered meals. The program includes case management services to assist participants in obtaining Medicaid and other waiver services. |
Free Used Medical Equipment
Due to the high cost of purchasing new medical equipment, several organizations in Utah 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Utah AT4All | 800-524-5152 | AT4All is the partner site of the UATP where Utah residents can purchase and borrow used medical equipment. The site lists equipment across a range of categories, including environmental modifications, shower benches and mobility devices such as electric scooters and wheelchairs. |
| Utah Ability 1st | 801-373-5044 | Ability 1st Utah loans out medical equipment for up to 90 days and can extend loan periods when another patron hasn't requested the borrowed equipment. Its varied inventory includes scooters, wheelchairs and walkers, as well as shower benches and other helpful equipment. |
| Utah Assistive Technology | 801-466-5565 | At the Utah Independent Living Center, seniors who only need medical equipment for a short duration can borrow what they need from its loan bank, while those who need assistive devices long-term may qualify to use community funding to purchase what would normally be out of reach financially. Shower seats, scooters, walkers and bedside tables are some of the most common borrowed items. The maximum loan period is three months, but the program can extend it. |
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 Utah have different eligibility criteria and often assist retirees by providing grants or loans.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Utah Section 504 Home Repair Program | 801-524-4264 | The Section 504 Home Repair Program awards grants of up to $10,000 to low-income seniors who need to perform repairs on their homes to remove health and safety hazards. |
| Utah Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) | The WAP helps seniors perform home upgrades and repairs to increase their energy efficiency, resulting in lower energy bills. Contractors with the program typically perform repairs such as installing insulation in the attics and floors and replacing broken windows. Homeowners don't have to pay to participate, but if you rent your home, your landlord may need to pay a share of the costs. |
Legal Resources
Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal services to Utah 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Utah Legal Services | 801-328-8891 | Older adults who live in Salt Lake County can turn to Utah Legal Services' Senior Citizen Law Center for free legal advice. ULS' volunteer lawyers can help seniors navigate legal concerns regarding public benefits, housing, health and family issues. The organization's Senior Law Project focuses on assistance involving estate and probate law, drafting wills, sharing bank accounts and establishing powers of attorney. |
| Utah Long Term Care Ombudsman | During a conflict at a nursing home, the Long Term Care Ombudsman is available to help seniors find solutions that serve their best interests. Complaints can be filed by long-term care facility residents or their family members. From a resident's right to privacy and confidentiality to their right to complain and make independent choices, workers in the Ombudsman program are knowledgeable about the freedoms granted to seniors living in nursing homes. |
Senior Centers
Senior centers in Utah 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Utah Health Care Association | 801-486-6100 | Utah Health Care Association (UHCA) is an industry organization for long-term care facilities, including nursing homes and assisted living facilities. It also provides resources and assistance to seniors and their families who are making decisions about their long-term care. UHCA produces a number of consumer guides for people exploring long-term care, including A Consumer's Guide to Nursing Facilities, and has a search program to help people find the right senior living facility. |
Senior Engagement
Senior engagement resources and programs in Utah 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 of Utah Chapter | 801-265-1944 | Trained and knowledgeable representatives with the Alzheimer's Association Utah Chapter assist seniors living with the disease through a variety of channels. Their support services include referrals to local programs and services, such as identifying available memory care facilities. Staff also offers educational opportunities that highlight what to expect as the disease progresses. |
| Utah Easterseals-Goodwill Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) | 435-986-3576 | The SCSEP administered by Easterseals-Goodwill provides paid job training for low-income job seekers 55 and older, helping them gain experience and updated skills that may lead to regular employment. Participants receive an average of 20 hours of training per week in their assigned host agencies which are nonprofit and community service organizations. These assignments vary in duration, usually from 6 to 12 months. |
Social Security Offices
Social Security offices in Utah 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Utah 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 Utah 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Utah Circuit Breaker Homeowner Low-Income Abatement | Seniors who qualify for the Homeowner Low-Income Abatement can lower their annual property taxes by up to $1,110. They can also add a 20% credit of their home's market value. | |
| Utah Indigent Abatement | 800-662-4335 | The Indigent Abatement is a tax relief program for older homeowners. It allows them to reduce their property tax burden by up to half the current year's tax or $1,110, whichever is less. Approval for the program is at the discretion of your county's tax office. |
Utility & Energy Bill Assistance
Low-income seniors who are struggling to meet the costs of maintaining their homes can find support from organizations that offer assistance with utility and energy bills. Utah retirees could also qualify for emergency funding programs if they're in danger of losing utility services due to unpaid invoices.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Utah Home Energy Assistance Target Program | 866-205-4357 | The Utah Home Energy Assistance Target Program offers year-round energy and water bill assistance for eligible low-income seniors in Utah. Households with people aged 60 and older are prioritized and can apply for aid a month early. Households must have a total income at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Level. To qualify, applicants must provide a copy of their bills along with proof of income, medical expenses, alimony and applicable disability as well as any other requested documentation. |
Veteran's Services
Utah 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Utah VA Benefits and Health Care | Utah VA Benefits and Health Care services include specialized programs for qualified veterans ages 65 and older. The state has a central VA facility in Salt Lake City as well as outpatient clinics in Moab, North Logan and St. George. The Regional Benefit Office is also in Salt Lake City. In addition to medical care, disabled veterans can access supplemental benefits, such as funds to cover long-term assistance at VA memory care or skilled nursing units or in-home care options. | |
| Utah Department of Veterans and Military Affairs | 801-326-2372 | The Utah Department of Veterans and Military Affairs administers benefits and services to qualifying veterans in the state. This department provides health care benefits, which can reduce out-of-pocket medical costs, along with life insurance, burial benefits and VA benefits claims assistance. |
Nursing Home Laws and Regulations in Utah
| Nursing Home Laws and Regulations in Utah | |
|---|---|
| Licensing Requirements | All Utah nursing homes are regulated under Rule R432-150 of the Utah Administrative Code, and the Bureau of Health Facility Licensing. Certification and Resident Assessment is responsible for the licensing and inspection of long-term care facilities. |
| Staffing Requirements | In Utah, every nursing home must have a licensed administrator and a director of nursing who is a licensed registered nurse. All direct care staff must be screened for infectious diseases and immunized in accordance with state guidelines. Staff must also complete a TB test prior to commencing duties. Facilities must maintain adequate staffing levels to safely provide quality care to each resident. A licensed nurse must be designated as a charge nurse on every shift. |
| Staff Training Requirements | Nursing home administrators must ensure that all staff receives annual training in fire prevention, emergency procedures, infection control, resident rights and safety procedures. All unlicensed staff who provide nursing care must work under the supervision of an RN or LPN, and staff must be trained in basic first aid and CPR. |
| Admission Restrictions | Nursing homes can only admit residents with care needs that cannot be safely managed in a less-restrictive setting. Facilities can decline admission to individuals who may pose a threat to themselves or others due to aggressive behavior and/or transmission of communicable diseases, as well as those with health care needs that exceed the capabilities of the facility. |
| Care Planning Requirements | Upon admission, the facility must have orders issued from a licensed physician that outline the immediate care needs of the resident. A comprehensive care plan that covers the individual's medical history and needs, cognitive status and rehabilitation potential must be prepared by the facility within 14 days of admission, and reviewed at least once every 90 days. A comprehensive assessment needs to be completed at least once every 365 days. Care plans must be reviewed within 14 days of a significant change in the resident's physical and/or mental health, regardless of the date of the previous review. |
| Dietary and Nutritional Services Requirement | Nursing homes must provide safe, nutritionally balanced meals and snacks that are both palatable and compliant with resident's dietary needs. Each facility must employ or retain the services of a certified dietitian, and if the dietitian is not on-site on a full-time basis, a dietetic supervisor must also be retained. Menus must be posted in a common area within the facility, and daily menus must be unique each day within a 21-day cycle. Facilities need to ensure the interval between breakfast and the last meal of the day is no greater than 14 hours. A one-week supply of nonperishable foods and a three-day supply of perishable items must be kept on-site at all times. Dining assistants need to complete a minimum of eight hours of training in feeding techniques, infection control and resident rights. |
| Specialized Rehabilitative Services | Nursing homes may offer specialized rehabilitative services, and all such services may only be delivered by state-licensed professionals employed by, or contracted to, the nursing home. Facilities can only provide specialized rehab services that are prescribed by an attending physician, and that physician needs to review the treatment plan with the therapist on a monthly basis. |
| Medication and Pharmaceutical Services | Every nursing home needs to either employ or contract with a licensed pharmacist who oversees medication dispensing and recording in the facility. The pharmacist must also review resident medications on a monthly basis, and ensure the safe handling and storage of all prescription and nonprescription medications. Facilities are required to have an emergency drug supply on-site and inventoried monthly by the pharmacist. |
| Activities Requirements | Nursing homes should provide a recreational program, and daily activities need to be posted on a monthly basis. |
| Infection Control Requirements | All nursing homes must establish and maintain an infection control protocol in accordance with public health guidelines. |
| Medicaid Coverages | Utah Medicaid benefits include nursing home care for beneficiaries who meet the clinical criteria for nursing home placement. |
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