Who has control over policy in a nursing center?

The owner of a nursing center has significant control over policy because they are ultimately responsible for the direction and operations of the facility. The owner sets the foundational goals, values, and policies that guide the functioning of the nursing center. This includes decisions related to staffing, patient care protocols, and compliance with regulatory standards. While the director of nursing and the health team play crucial roles in the day-to-day management and clinical operations, their authority is usually derived from the policies and direction set forth by the owner. Additionally, while Medicare and Medicaid establish certain regulatory frameworks and reimbursement policies that must be adhered to, they do not dictate the internal policies of the nursing center. Therefore, the ownership structure establishes the overarching control necessary for policy-making within the facility.