Skilled nursing facilities require both state certification and Medicare certification. 

4. Responsible State Agency 

The Alaska Health Facilities Licensing and Certification unit, part of the Department of Health and Social Services, is responsible for licensing and oversight. 

5. Application Process 

The specific application process is not detailed in the provided information. Providers should contact the Alaska Health Facilities Licensing and Certification unit for application procedures. 

6. Required Documentation 

While not exhaustively listed, required documentation likely includes: 

• Proof of staff licensing and training 

• Resident care plans 

• Medication assistance records 

• Change of condition reports 

7. Timeline for Approval 

The exact timeline for approval is not specified in the provided information. 

8. Pre-Application Process 

No specific pre-application process is mentioned. 

9. Pre-Application Training 

While no specific pre-application training is mentioned, ongoing staff training and education are required. 

10. Additional Notes 

• Facilities must provide residents with a written description of their legal rights. 

• Staff-to-resident ratios are regulated. 

• Medicare coverage is primarily for short-term care and has specific eligibility requirements. 

• Medicaid coverage for skilled nursing falls under Nursing Facility Services and requires meeting state criteria. 

• As of February 2025, long-term care authorization request forms can be submitted to the Division of Senior and Disabilities Services through the Direct Secure Messaging system.