Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF)
Definition: A healthcare facility that provides 24-hour skilled nursing care, rehabilitation services, and other medical services to residents who require a higher level of care than can be provided at home or in an assisted living facility.
In Practice
SNFs are certified by CMS to participate in Medicare and/or Medicaid programs. They must comply with federal Conditions of Participation and are subject to regular surveys. The term 'nursing home' is often used interchangeably with SNF, though technically a nursing home may include both skilled and non-skilled (custodial) care.