What is a Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF)?

Skilled Nursing Facilities provide 24/7 medical care and rehabilitation services for seniors who require intensive nursing care, physical therapy, or medical supervision. These facilities bridge the gap between hospital care and home, offering both short-term rehabilitation and long-term care services.

Professional medical care and nursing services

24/7 Medical Care

Licensed nurses and medical professionals provide round-the-clock medical supervision, medication management, and health monitoring.

Physical therapy and rehabilitation services

Rehabilitation Services

Physical, occupational, and speech therapy services to help residents recover and maintain their highest level of function.

Specialized medical care and treatment

Specialized Medical Care

Advanced medical treatments, wound care, IV therapy, and specialized care for complex medical conditions.

SNF vs Nursing Homes: Understanding the Difference

While often used interchangeably, Skilled Nursing Facilities and traditional nursing homes serve different purposes and populations in the Bay Area.

Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNF)

  • Purpose: Short-term rehabilitation and recovery
  • Medicare Coverage: Up to 100 days with qualifying hospital stay
  • Services: Intensive therapy, medical care, rehabilitation
  • Length of Stay: Typically 2-6 months
  • Goal: Return to home or lower level of care
  • Staffing: Higher ratio of licensed medical professionals

Traditional Nursing Homes

  • Purpose: Long-term custodial care
  • Medicare Coverage: Limited, primarily private pay or Medicaid
  • Services: Basic nursing care, assistance with daily activities
  • Length of Stay: Indefinite, often permanent
  • Goal: Maintain quality of life and comfort
  • Staffing: Mix of licensed and unlicensed caregivers

Bay Area Skilled Nursing Costs

Understanding the financial aspects of skilled nursing care in San Francisco and San Mateo Counties, including payment options and insurance coverage.

Private Pay Costs

Private pay rates vary significantly based on location, facility quality, and level of care required.

Medicare Coverage

Medicare covers up to 100 days with qualifying 3-day hospital stay. Days 21-100 require daily copay.

Medi-Cal (Medicaid)

Medi-Cal covers skilled nursing for eligible low-income residents with medical necessity.

Payment Options & Insurance Coverage

Navigating the complex world of skilled nursing payment options in California, including Medicare, Medi-Cal, Veterans benefits, and private insurance.

Medicare Coverage

  • Part A: Covers SNF care after 3-day hospital stay
  • Days 1-20: $0 copay
  • Days 21-100: about $200/day copay (2025)
  • Day 101+: Full private pay required
  • Requirement: Must show daily skilled care need

Medi-Cal (Medicaid)

  • Eligibility: Low income and medical necessity
  • Coverage: Long-term skilled nursing care
  • Asset Limits: $2,000 for single person
  • Look-back Period: 30 months for asset transfers
  • Application: Through county social services

Veterans Benefits

  • VA Aid & Attendance: Up to $2,300/month
  • Pension Benefits: Additional financial support
  • VA Community Living Centers: VA-operated facilities
  • Eligibility: Service-connected disabilities or low income
  • Application: Through VA regional office

Private Insurance

  • Long-term Care Insurance: Covers skilled nursing costs
  • Medicare Supplement: Covers Medicare copays
  • Medicare Advantage: May offer additional benefits
  • Coverage Varies: Check individual policies
  • Prior Authorization: Often required for coverage

Bay Area Skilled Nursing Facilities

San Francisco and San Mateo Counties are home to some of the highest-rated skilled nursing facilities in California, offering world-class medical care and rehabilitation services.

San Francisco Facilities

  • UCSF Medical Center - Skilled Nursing
  • California Pacific Medical Center
  • St. Mary's Medical Center
  • Laguna Honda Hospital & Rehabilitation Center
  • Jewish Home of San Francisco

San Mateo County Facilities

  • Stanford Health Care - ValleyCare
  • Mills-Peninsula Medical Center
  • Sequoia Hospital
  • Kaiser Permanente Redwood City
  • San Mateo Medical Center

Need Help Finding the Right Skilled Nursing Facility?

Our experienced care advisors can help you navigate the complex world of skilled nursing care, understand your payment options, and find the best facility for your loved one's specific needs.