Georgia Assisted Living Regulations

Nursing homes and assisted living facilities in Georgia have a legal duty of care to provide a safe, stimulating environment for the elderly, with respect for their individuality and human dignity, as well as adequate nutrition and skilled medical care. To clearly define these requirements for Georgia’s assisted living facilities, Georgia Law’s Chapter 111-8-63 sets regulations and standards that all assisted living facilities must follow. Failing to adhere to these regulations can result in legal penalties, fines, civil liability, and—tragically—cause harm or wrongful death to residents.

Licensing Requirements for Assisted Living Facilities In Georgia

The Georgia Department of Community Health (DCH) sets specific licensing requirements for nursing homes and other assisted living facilities. These requirements include the following:

• Submitting an application form with current, accurate information
• Paying the required licensing fee based on the size and occupancy of the facility
• Submitting all required supporting documents, including floor plans, background checks for staff members, and a financial stability plan
• Undergoing an initial inspection
• Taking required corrective measures
• Undergoing a final inspection
• Receiving approval and a formal license

After receiving a license, Georgia requires the facility to prominently display the license in a place where residents and visitors can easily see it.

Continued Compliance for Georgia Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Facilities

In order to maintain a license, the facility must undergo regular inspections and pass compliance requirements. Facility administrators are required to report any changes to their administration and any accidents or incidents that occur on the premises.

Periodic license renewals require additional inspections and updated documentation.

Staffing Requirements for Georgia Assisted Living Facilities

A nursing home’s staffing is inarguably the most important aspect of the facility. Caregivers are tasked with upholding the facility’s legal duty of care to each resident. Staff members must meet all requirements, including background checks, health screenings, initial training, specialized training, and ongoing education. In addition, the facility must adhere to the following staff-to-resident ratios:

• One caregiver per 15 residents during the daytime
• One caregiver per 20 residents at night
• At least two staff members on site at all times, day or night, with at least one per floor
• A registered nurse or licensed practical nurse on site for an increasing number of hours per week depending on the number of residents

Staff members of Georgia assisted living facilities must wear badges displaying their credentials.

Additional Regulations and Requirements for Georgia Assisted Living Facilities

Regulatory requirements for Georgia assisted living facilities help to ensure the safety and emotional well-being of residents. Specialized lawyers for nursing home abuse in Atlanta explain an overview of additional regulations which include the following:

• Facilities that use medical alert systems must ensure that the system meets the necessary requirements, including routine maintenance and testing
• All business, staffing, and daily care records must be available for inspection
• The design and construction of the facility must meet state requirements
• In addition to each resident’s living quarters, the facility must include common areas that meet requirements, including a separate living room area, a kitchen, a dining area, and rooms for residents to meet privately with loved ones
• The facility must meet requirements for ramps, handrails, and mobility equipment
• The facility must be properly maintained and free of slip-and-fall hazards, with adequate ambient lighting, and additional “task lighting” available for reading, knitting, puzzles, and other activities
• Nursing homes must strictly follow requirements for bathrooms, toilets, bathing, and shower facilities
• Strict adherence to regulations for electrical wiring requirements and fire safety devices
• The facility must meet the requirements for safe, comfortable, and adequate furnishings for all room types
• Facilities must follow regulations for community and premises safety and emergency measures

Finally, all Georgia nursing homes and other assisted living facilities must follow regulations for resident admissions and emergency placement.