Skilled Nursing Facilities in Seattle
Skilled nursing facilities (SNFs), commonly called nursing homes, provide the highest level of care outside a hospital. They're appropriate when seniors need round-the-clock medical supervision that can't be provided in assisted living or at home.
When Skilled Nursing Is Appropriate
- Recovery after surgery, stroke, or hospitalization (short-term rehab)
- Complex medical needs requiring daily nursing care
- Advanced dementia with significant behavioral or physical care needs
- Conditions requiring IV therapy, wound care, or ventilator support
- End-of-life care requiring intensive symptom management
What's Provided
Medical Care:
- 24/7 licensed nursing staff (RNs and LPNs)
- Physician oversight and regular visits
- Medication administration
- Wound care, IV therapy, catheter care
- Physical, occupational, and speech therapy
Daily Care:
- All meals and nutrition management
- Complete personal care assistance
- Mobility support and fall prevention
Costs in Seattle Area
- Private room: $350–$450 per day ($10,500–$13,500/month)
- Semi-private room: $275–$350 per day ($8,250–$10,500/month)
How to Pay
- Medicare: Covers up to 100 days of skilled nursing after a qualifying hospital stay (first 20 days fully covered, days 21–100 with copay)
- Medicaid: Covers long-term nursing home care for those who qualify financially
- Long-term care insurance: May cover a portion depending on policy
- Private pay: Out-of-pocket when other options don't apply
Evaluating Quality
- Check Medicare's Care Compare ratings (1–5 stars)
- Review state inspection reports for violations
- Ask about staff turnover and staffing ratios
- Visit at different times (including evenings/weekends)
- Talk to current residents' family members if possible