The impact of specialized care in skilled nursing facilities for older adults

Post-acute care of older adults: the role of skilled nursing facility specialists

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10864967

This study is looking at how doctors who focus on caring for older adults in nursing facilities can help them recover better and avoid going back to the hospital after their stay.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10864967 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how physicians who specialize in skilled nursing facility (SNF) care, known as 'SNFists', can improve the health outcomes of older adults receiving post-acute care. By analyzing Medicare claims and clinical data, the study aims to determine if specialized care leads to better functional outcomes and fewer hospital readmissions for patients. The research will also explore the effects of value-based purchasing initiatives on patient care in these facilities. Ultimately, the goal is to enhance the quality of care for seniors transitioning from hospitals to SNFs.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who have recently been discharged from an acute care hospital to a skilled nursing facility.

Not a fit: Patients who are not transitioning to skilled nursing facilities or those who do not require post-acute care may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved health outcomes and reduced hospital readmissions for older adults receiving post-acute care.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that specialized care in nursing facilities can lead to improved patient outcomes, suggesting that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.