An intermediate care facility (ICF) is a long term care facility that provides nursing and supportive care to residents on a non-continuous skilled nursing care basis, under a physician’s direction. ICFs are designed to provide custodial care for those who are unable to care for themselves because of mental disability or declining health. An ICF is typically regarded as a lower level nursing care facility when compared to a skilled nursing facility, but its residents require more care and attention than those in a residential care facility for elderly or an adult residential care facility.
The delineation of intermediate care facilities can differ, and the government is still working on a clear definition for them. However, ICFs are commonly smaller facilities, accommodating around eight to 15 residents on average. ICF Facilities are most commonly for Developmentally Disabled residents, but they are sometimes resided in by elderly patients as well.
How Are Intermediate Care Facilities Regulated?
Each state has different regulations for intermediate care facilities. Currently, all 50 states have at least one ICF, and regardless which state facility is located in, they must to pass background checks and inspections as well as register for a license to operate. State agencies provide licenses to facilities, conduct annual surveys and investigate complaints and incidents to ensure compliance with any local and federal regulations.
What Types of Services Do Intermediate Care Facilities Provide?
ICF services can vary among different facilities depending on resident needs, facility size, and other factor. In addition to nurses, some facilities may employ occupational therapists, physical therapists, social workers and dietitians to make regular visits. The facilities can help residents with a myriad of tasks including but not limited to; getting dressed or undressed, bathing and showering, daily hygiene, using the restroom, moving around the facility, washing laundry, housekeeping, transportation to and from activities and appointments, and reminders to take medications.
Are Intermediate Care Facilities Covered Under Medicare?
Intermediate care facilities are sometimes confused with nursing homes or skilled nursing facilities, but they typically do not focus on medical services, so they are not eligible for reimbursement under Medicare. Instead, ICFs are used more for rehabilitative assisted living, or to house mentally disabled adults who need daily assistance and occasional monitoring. Assistance is available for patients with long-term care insurance and those who meet Medicaid eligibility requirement, but all other residents pay out-of-pocket for ICF care. Because residents don’t require around-the-clock nursing care, ICFs tend to have lower operating expenses, resulting in lower costs for residents paying out-of-pocket.
About Connected Risk Solutions
At Connected Risk Solutions, we use our expertise and experience to provide insurance information and programs to those who serve long-term care and senior living facilities. Since 2007, we’ve been offering insurance and risk management plans designed to help our agents give their clients the ability to achieve continued growth while simultaneously protecting against loss, containing costs and increasing profitability. To learn more, contact us at (877) 890-9301.
