Skilled Nursing Services in Georgia are governed by the Rules and Regulations for Nursing Homes, Chapter 290-5-8, effective November 15, 1976, amended September 8, 2004 

3. Licensing or Certification 

A license (permit) is required to operate as a Skilled Nursing Facility in Georgia. Additionally, facilities choosing to participate in federal programs must be certified 

4. Responsible State Agency 

The Georgia Department of Community Health (DCH) is responsible for issuing licenses and overseeing Skilled Nursing Facilities 

5. Application Process 

The application process is conducted through the Georgia Department of Community Health. Providers must submit a completed application along with required documentation 

6. Required Documentation 

Required documents for the application include: 

• Completed application form 

• Payment of required fee 

• Proof of meeting safety standards and requirements 

• Evidence of satisfactory licensure status in other states (if applicable) 

7. Timeline for Approval 

The specific timeline for approval is not provided. However, licenses are issued annually 

8. Pre-Application Process 

Providers must ensure they meet all state requirements before applying, including forming a business entity and developing comprehensive policies and procedures. 

9. Pre-Application Training 

While not explicitly stated, providers must ensure their staff meets training requirements to provide skilled nursing care and related services. 

10. Additional Notes 

• Fees for licensing: 1-99 Beds $500, >99 Beds $750; paid annually 

• As of April 30, 2024, new regulations require each resident to receive a total of 3.48 hours of care daily from staff, including 0.55 hours from registered nurses and 2.45 hours from nursing assistants 

• Skilled Nursing Facilities must provide a comprehensive quality improvement program, including staff training and monitoring of specific quality indicators 

• Providers must establish and implement written policies and procedures for service planning, with service plans reviewed and updated at least every sixty-two days for nursing services 

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