What is a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) regulated by?

A Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) is primarily regulated by the state’s health department. This regulation encompasses a range of aspects including the licensing, oversight, and standards that CCRCs must meet to ensure the safety, health, and rights of residents. Each state may have its own specific requirements and regulations tailored to how CCRCs operate, adhering to state laws that govern long-term care.

The CCRC model typically provides a continuum of care, which may include independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing care all within one setting, allowing for a seamless transition as residents' needs change over time. Thus, state health departments are the appropriate regulatory bodies to ensure that these various care levels comply with established health and safety standards.

The federal government has broader guidelines but does not specifically regulate CCRCs. Local municipalities may have some oversight in terms of zoning or building codes, but they do not specifically govern the operational regulations for care delivery in CCRCs. The state insurance department might be involved in aspects concerning the financial side of CCRCs, especially regarding the contracts and services provided, but the primary regulatory authority falls under the jurisdiction of the state health department.