The Department of Health, Division of Nursing Care Facilities is responsible for the licensing and oversight of Pennsylvania's nursing care facilities. As of December 31, 2010, there were 714 facilities with a total bed capacity of over 88,000. The Department conducts approximately 5,000 inspections a year. These include licensure and certification surveys, follow-up surveys and complaint investigations. The Department also operates and maintains the federally mandated Nurse Aide Registry which contains information on over 229,000 nurse aides in Pennsylvania.

 

Choosing a nursing home can be an emotionally challenging time in an individual's or family member's life. For most of us, as we grow older, we recognize the need to plan for the future. We may put our affairs in order so our children will not be burdened unnecessarily. While we may have the foresight to prepare a will, we often neglect to prepare for the possible need for nursing home placement. The Department of Health would like to encourage you to spend a little time thinking about your wishes and preferences. Even if you were not ready to choose a nursing home right now, we would like to provide you with some resources and tips you can consider in the future. We are fortunate in Pennsylvania because there are many nursing homes from which to choose.