The SNF admissions process includes many steps and happens at a point in time that can be very emotionally charged for all involved.  It can be a time of sensory overload for the new resident and family member.  A lot of information is exchanged and it is critical that the information shared by the SNF be presented in a clear and concise manner.  Think about offering information in three categories:

• Need to Know
• Want to Know
• Nice to Know…later

Information Shared by the SNF

Need to Know

Much of this information has a financial and legal impact.  Information in this category is best contained in an “Admissions Packet”.  It should contain the following:

• Admissions Agreement
• If a resident has a Legal Guardian, Power of Attorney, Health Care Power of Attorney, etc., these documents should be provided to the SNF at the time of admission or prior.
• Payment terms of the SNF. When are statements sent, when are payments due, how can payments be made?  Are there options for Credit Card payments, ACH, Rep payee, etc.?
• Resident Rights for the state in which the SNF is located.  This document is often available in multiple languages.
• Permission for treatment and Permission to bill on behalf of the resident
• Resident Handbook
• Resident Trust Account information-How does it work at the SNF?  Include any authorization forms.
• Listing of Ancillary health care providers, contact information, hours of service, etc.  This includes Podiatrist, Dentist, Psychiatrist/Psychologist, etc.
• Pharmacy agreement and formulary information
• Ombudsman/Advocacy Contact information

All documents contained in an Admission Packet should be reviewed by the legal counsel for the SNF.  It is also important to follow the regulatory guidelines of your state as to any state specific requirements.

Not for Profit and CCRC providers may have more stringent requirements and include an application, credit review, etc. as part of their admissions process. Typically, an application or credit review/report would be completed as part of the inquiry process, before the review of the Admission Packet.

Want to know

• Listing of facility staff and contact information
• Menu, Activity calendar, transportation services, Beauty shop, Guest meals, etc.
• Resident banking hours and information
• Care Conference schedule

Nice to Know…later

• Community newsletter
• Religious services, Pastoral Care supports, etc.

Much of the Want to Know and Nice to Know...later information can be provided via a separate folder or packet.  

When it comes to the Admissions Process… remember the old adage… KEEP IT SIMPLE!   The resident/family member is likely to be tired, anxious, trying to process a lot of information in a short amount of time on top of the emotion attached to all that is happening.  Keeping the paperwork and information as simple as possible is best.

When meeting with the resident/family member to sign any required paperwork, do what you can to create a soothing and calming environment.  Select a location that is as inviting as you can make it.  Minimize interruptions, keeping a phone on mute, shutting a door, etc.  Offer refreshments.  Let the resident/family tell you how they are feeling in the moment.  

You want the resident/family to begin to experience the essence of what you offer… PEACE OF MIND.  Be the resource, be the listening ear, be the kindness that they seek.

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