Choosing the right level of care for a loved one can feeloverwhelming, especially when you’ree trying to understand the differencesbetween various long-term care settings. In Wisconsin, two common options areCommunity-Based Residential Facilities, or CBRFs, and Skilled NursingFacilities. Each offers a different level of care, so understanding thosedifferences can help you make a confident decision.
What Is a CBRF in Wisconsin?
A Community-Based Residential Facility is an assisted livingoption where five or more unrelated adults live together in a community-stylesetting. These facilities provide room and board, supervision and help withdaily needs. CBRFs may offer up to three hours of nursing care per resident perweek which makes them best suited for individuals who do not require care abovean intermediate nursing level.
Many CBRFs focus on serving residents with conditions suchas dementia, mental health challenges or physical disabilities, as long astheir nursing needs remain within the three-hour weekly limit.
CBRFs in Wisconsin are regulated under Wis. Admin. Code DHS83 which sets standards for staffing, safety, caregiver background checks andoverall facility operation. [
A CBRF can be a good fit for someone who:
- Needs help with personal care
- Prefers a more home-like atmosphere
- Has stable health conditions
- Can manage most daily tasks with some guidance
What Is a Skilled Nursing Facility?
A Skilled Nursing Facility provides a significantly higherlevel of medical care. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services defines anursing home as a place where five or more people live because they require24-hour nursing services. This includes limited, intermediate or skillednursing care.
Skilled nursing facilities are equipped for individuals withmore complex health needs. They provide services such as medicationadministration, wound care, IV therapy, regular clinical monitoring andcomprehensive rehabilitation programs. These facilities also follow detailedstate and federal regulations including Wis. Admin. Code DHS 132.
A Skilled Nursing Facility may be the right choice forsomeone who:
- Has ongoing medical needs
- Requires 24-hour nurse availability
- Needs post-hospital rehabilitation
- Has worsening chronic conditions
- Needs regular medical oversight
Key Differences Between CBRFs and Skilled NursingFacilities
1. Level of Medical Care
This is the primary difference between the two settings.
- CBRFs provide no more than three hours of nursing care per week and are not designed for individuals who need advanced medical attention.
- Skilled Nursing Facilities provide continuous access to nursing care and medical supervision which makes them appropriate for residents who need ongoing treatment.
2. Living Environment
- CBRFs offer a more residential setting that feels similar to a traditional home environment.
- Skilled Nursing Facilities look and function more like medical centers with clinical staff available around the clock.
3. Regulations
- CBRFs follow Wis. Admin. Code DHS 83.
- Skilled nursing facilities follow Wis. Admin. Code DHS 132 plus additional federal regulations.
4. Services Provided
Here is a simple comparison:
CBRF
- 24-hour nursing: No
- Medical treatment: Limited
- Rehabilitation: Limited
- Personal care: Yes
- Complex medical needs: No
Skilled Nursing Facility
- 24-hour nursing: Yes
- Medical treatment: Extensive
- Rehabilitation: Full therapy programs
- Personal care: Yes
- Complex medical needs: Yes
How to Decide Which One Is Right for Your Loved One
Begin with an honest look at your loved one’s dailyabilities and medical needs.
A CBRF may be the best option if your loved one:
- Needs help with dressing, bathing or meals
- Has stable health
- Does not require frequent nursing care
- Wants a community-style setting
A Skilled Nursing Facility is likely the betterchoice if your loved one:
- Needs 24-hour medical attention
- Has a serious or progressing health condition
- Requires rehabilitation after a hospital stay
- Needs regular monitoring by licensed nurses
If you are unsure which level of care is appropriate, amedical assessment can provide helpful guidance.
Making a Thoughtful Decision
Both CBRFs and Skilled Nursing Facilities have an importantplace in Wisconsin’s long-term care landscape. The right choice depends on howmuch medical care your loved one needs, how independent they are and whatenvironment will help them stay safe and comfortable. By understanding whateach setting provides, your family can make a thoughtful decision that feelsright for everyone involved.
