Skilled Nursing Services in Alabama

1. Program Definition and Services 

Skilled nursing services in Alabama provide advanced medical care delivered by licensed professionals. Services include: 

  • 24-hour nursing care 
  • Post-hospital and rehabilitation care 
  • Wound care and pain management
  • Physical, occupational, and speech therapy 
  • IV therapy and nutrition management 
  • Specialized care for conditions like stroke, cardiac issues, and joint replacements 

 

2. Regulations 

Skilled nursing facilities in Alabama are governed by: 

  • Alabama Medicaid Agency regulations 
  • Alabama Department of Public Health rules (Chapter 420-5-10) 
  • Federal regulations from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) 

 

3. Licensing or Certification 

Skilled nursing facilities must: 

  • Be licensed by the Alabama Department of Public Health 
  • Be certified for Medicare participation 
  • Comply with federal and state regulations 

 

4. Responsible State Agency 

The primary agencies overseeing skilled nursing services in Alabama are: 

  • Alabama Department of Public Health 
  • Alabama Medicaid Agency 

 

5. Application Process 

While specific details aren't provided, providers likely need to: 

  • Apply for licensure through the Alabama Department of Public Health 
  • Enroll with the Alabama Medicaid Agency 

 

6. Required Documentation 

Providers must demonstrate: 

  • Compliance with state and federal standards 
  • Staff qualifications and training 
  • Proper care planning and documentation 
  • Adherence to resident rights and quality of care standards 

 

7. Timeline for Approval 

Specific timelines are not available. 

 

8. Pre-Application Process 

There is no explicit mention of a pre-application process. 

 

9. Pre-Application Training 

While not specifically pre-application, ongoing staff training is required, including: 

  • A two-week training period for PERS staff 
  • Continuous education for nursing and therapy staff 

 

10. Additional Notes 

  • Facilities must maintain identical policies for all residents regardless of payment source 
  • As of 2025, there's an increasing demand for skilled nursing services due to Alabama's growing senior population 
  • Skilled nursing facilities may be part of larger senior living communities offering multiple levels of care 
  • Special Focus Facility (SFF) program exists for facilities with poor performance history, involving increased oversight and enforcement 

 

To get started, click the link to request portal access