CMS-certified nursing homes are inspected by state survey agencies, and CMS publishes the results. This is a general, neutral overview — for specifics, consult CMS.
Key points
✓State survey agencies inspect certified facilities on a recurring basis.
✓Additional inspections can follow complaints.
✓CMS publishes the results on Care Compare.
Recurring inspections
State survey agencies conduct standard health inspections of certified nursing homes on a recurring cycle — CMS describes this as roughly once a year on average, though the exact timing varies. These inspections check whether a facility meets federal requirements.
Complaint inspections
In addition to the recurring cycle, state agencies may inspect in response to complaints. Findings from both types of inspections become part of the public CMS record.
Where the results are published
CMS publishes inspection findings — including the citations and their CMS severity — on Care Compare. This site summarizes those CMS-reported findings; see the guide on how to read nursing home inspection citations.
Frequently asked questions
How often are nursing homes inspected?▾
State survey agencies inspect certified nursing homes on a recurring cycle — CMS describes it as roughly once a year on average — and may also inspect in response to complaints. Timing varies; CMS is the authoritative source.
Who inspects nursing homes?▾
State survey agencies conduct the inspections under CMS oversight, and CMS publishes the results on Care Compare.
Where can I see inspection results?▾
On the official CMS Care Compare site, and summarized from CMS records on this site's facility pages.
Verify with official sources
SeniorCareRating.com organizes public CMS data and is not affiliated with CMS or any facility. Confirm current details on the official CMS Care Compare site and with the facility before making decisions.
SeniorCareRating.com summarizes public CMS data. It is not affiliated with CMS, Medicare.gov, or any nursing home. Data may lag current conditions. This is not medical, legal, or care-placement advice — always verify with official sources and qualified professionals.
