Skilled Nursing Services in Colorado 


1. Program Definition and Services 

Skilled Nursing Services in Colorado provides 24-hour licensed nursing care under the direction of a registered professional nurse. Services include: 

  • Specialized nursing care 
  • Medication administration 
  • Wound care 
  • Rehabilitation services 
  • Health maintenance activities 
  • Observation and monitoring 

 

2. Regulations 

Skilled Nursing Services are governed by regulations outlined in 10 CCR 2505-10-8.408 of the Colorado Code of Regulations. 

 

3. Licensing or Certification 

Providers must be licensed as a Nursing Care Facility by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE). 

 

4. Responsible State Agency 

The Colorado Department of Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF) oversees Skilled Nursing Services programs. 

 

5. Application Process 

The application process is conducted online through the Colorado Provider Enrollment system at https://www.colorado.gov/hcpf/provider-enrollment

 

6. Required Documentation 

Required documentation for providers includes: 

  • Proof of Nursing Care Facility license 
  • Staff qualifications and training records 
  • Policies and procedures manual 
  • Proof of liability insurance 
  • Documentation of physician involvement 

 

7. Timeline for Approval 

The timeline for approval is not specifically mentioned in the provided information. 

 

8. Pre-Application Process 

There is no specific pre-application process mentioned in the provided information. 

 

9. Pre-Application Training 

While not mandatory pre-application training, nursing staff must complete required orientation and competency evaluations. 

 

10. Additional Notes 

  • A physician must certify that skilled nursing care is medically necessary. 
  • The facility must have a Director of Nursing who is a registered nurse. 
  • There must always be a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse on duty and in charge of nursing activities. 
  • Physicians must visit skilled nursing clients at least once every 30 days. 
  • Medical reviews of skilled nursing clients must be conducted annually. 
  • Facilities must develop comprehensive care plans for each resident within one week of admission. 

Skilled Nursing Facilities may be eligible for supplemental payments through the Supplemental Behavioral Services program for serving individuals with moderate to severe mental illnesses, cognitive dementia, and brain injuries. 

 

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