This study will synthesize existing literature on skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) and present an overview of the issues and legislation relevant to SNFs in rural areas. The general characteristics of SNFs (size, type, ownership, complexity of case-mix) and how these characteristics may vary by geographic location and by type of SNF will be described. Analysis of the HCFA s 1998-1999 SNF Annual Cost Report Minimum Data Set will provide information about the financial performance of SNFs in rural areas, and whether there are differences in the financial performance of SNFs by geographic location or by type, especially since the implementation of PPS.

Publications

• Background Paper: Rural-Urban Differences in Nursing Home and Skilled Nursing Supply
  North Carolina Rural Health Research and Policy Analysis Center
  Date: 02/2003
  This paper examines characteristics of nursing facilities and the supply of certified skilled nursing beds as the new PPS is being phased in, with particular reference to differences between urban and rural settings.