Certification Programs

Some types of long-term care services may be certified to participate in the Medicare and Medicaid programs. Federal laws govern certification. The Oklahoma State Department of Health conducts the certification inspections. A long-term care service does not have to be Medicare or Medicaid certified in order to operate; however, licensure is required. Without Medicare or Medicaid certification, the provider will not receive payment from those programs.

For licensure information, visit the Health Facility Systems web page. An operator must obtain Certificate of Need approval before establishing a nursing facility, specialized nursing facility, or skilled nursing unit, and before expanding bed capacity or transferring ownership. 

Teams of health professionals from the Department perform periodic surveys of each long-term care facility, home, and center in Oklahoma. Operators are certified based on the survey outcomes. The Department's health professionals will conduct revisits as necessary. Enforcement action is taken against the licensee, owner or operator that fails to comply with the state and federal requirements.

In addition, the Department's staff develops and interprets rules, monitors compliance with Medicaid and Medicare certification requirements, provides technical assistance to operators, and participates in provider training programs.

To register a complaint regarding a long-term care facility in Oklahoma, e-mail: ltccomplaints@health.ok.gov.