Federal Nursing Home Administrator Practice Exam

What is required for a facility to participate in Medicare and Medicaid programs, as established by OBRA '87?

1. Enhanced training for all staff

2. Maintaining a 5-star rating

3. Conditions to participate

4. Upgrading facility infrastructure

The correct answer is: Conditions to participate

To participate in Medicare and Medicaid programs, facilities must comply with specific Conditions of Participation as established by OBRA '87. These requirements ensure that facilities provide quality care and meet the necessary health and safety standards. The Conditions of Participation include several areas such as staff qualifications, resident rights, and care planning processes, which are crucial for maintaining the well-being of residents. The focus of OBRA '87 was to ensure that nursing facilities deliver quality care through adherence to these established standards. Compliance is mandatory for receiving federal funding through Medicare and Medicaid, emphasizing the importance of these conditions in establishing a baseline for care in nursing home settings. Therefore, understanding and adhering to these Conditions of Participation is pivotal for any facility seeking to receive reimbursement from these federal programs.