Established protocols and guidelines are used when conducting a survey with data collected on standardized forms. A visit usually extends over a period of several days and involves observations of resident care over more than one shift, as well as during planned leisure activities and meals. The facility is held accountable for the residents' quality of life as well as the quality of care and services provided. Non-compliance in either area results in the facility receiving a statement of deficiencies for which a plan of correction is required. Every nursing home receives a copy of the Department of Health's most recent survey report.
Federal law requires that the report be made available for inspection by the public.
The type of licensure and certification actions taken as a result of a survey depend upon the nature, severity, and prevalence of the deficiencies identified and the facility's plan of correction. The Division continues to take appropriate enforcement actions against facilities to ensure that improvements in the quality of life and care for nursing facility residents are affected when needed.