Beginning this summer, the Small House Skilled Nursing Facility Pilot Program will create a new subcategory of skilled nursing facility (SNF) in California: the small house skilled nursing facility.  The purpose of this new pilot program, also known as SB-1228, is to allow the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) to authorize the development and operation of up to 10 small house SNFs.

Organizations accepted into the program will have access to an unprecedented, streamlined process of approval for this new model of skilled nursing care.

A “small house” is defined as a health facility that provides skilled nursing care in a small home setting, which means each home serves no more than 12 residents.  A small house SNF consists of a cluster of such homes which, added together, make up the total number of licensed beds.  Homes in a small house SNF may be separate yet situated close to one another or they may be stacked on top of one another like condominiums or apartment buildings.

Benefits of the Small House Model

The Green House Project worked closely with the state of California to develop Senate Bill 1228, so the majority of California’s Small House Skilled Nursing Facility Pilot Program standards are very closely aligned with the essential elements of The Green House Project’s model.

The rationale for aligning with the Green House model is the demonstrated success and performance of Green House homes across the country.  Over the last decade, Green House homes have set the bar high for quality SNFs.  Today, there are 150 Green House homes operating in 24 states, including two in Pomona, California at Mt. San Antonio Gardens.

Independent research has demonstrated its effectiveness in improving resident and family satisfaction, and in delivering outstanding care at costs comparable to traditional skilled nursing facilities.

Researchers have found that elders living in Green House SNFs showed significantly improved quality of life and clinical outcomes (Kane et al, 2007, Bowers et al, 2009, Sharkey et al, 2009).  In fact, 83% of Green House adopters are 4 or 5 star SNFs compared to 43% of all SNFs nationwide (CMS NH Compare, August, 2013).

On the business side, analysis of operating results and workflow demonstrated that Green House homes’ operating costs are in line with traditional models of SNF care (Jenkens et al, 2011).

Navigating California’s Small House Pilot Program

Navigating California’s Small House Pilot Program will be a complex and rewarding process.  Expert guidance can help you take the risk out of innovation. Every step of the way you’ll want to know that you’re receiving guidance from people who are experienced, and can help you ensure that your licensed skilled nursing small house is meeting and exceeding  the pilot program’s unique and complex standards.

The pilot program’s window for applying is small and space is limited.  If you want to help your organization make history and make the most of an incredible business opportunity, the time to get started is now.

To learn more visit:  www.thegreenhouseproject.org