About the Long-Term Care (LTC) Survey Process
The long-term care (LTC) survey process (LTCSP) was developed by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to determine the compliance of a facility with Title 42, Chapter IV, Subchapter G, Part 483, Subpart B of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). This page provides information, tools, and resources about these requirements for skilled nursing facilities (SNF) and nursing facilities (NF), both of which must be compliant with these federal requirements in order to receive payment under Medicare and/or Medicaid.
The LTCSP is a computer-based guide to determine if certified nursing homes meet federal requirements; these computer-based pathways are structured to assist with the investigation of concerns and provide a framework to determine compliance with specific requirements.
The LTCSP is resident-centered, which means that resident-specific concerns identified through observations and/or resident/representative interviews are emphasized. The LTCSP provides consistency while allowing surveyors with autonomy and the ability to make decisions based on expertise and judgment. The overarching goal for the LTCSP is to have one unified survey process that effectively identifies survey outcomes in an efficient and consistent manner.
Resources, Forms, and Tools
Access | Title |
|---|---|
Matrix Instructions for Providers | |
Long-Term Care Survey Process (LTCSP) Procedure Guide | |
Medicare and Medicaid Programs; Reform of Requirements for Long-Term Care (LTC) Facilities | |
State Operations Manual, Appendix PP: Guidance to Surveyors for Long-Term Care (LTC) Facilities | |
Federal Regulatory Groups for Long-Term Care (LTC); Substandard Quality of Care // F-Tag Crosswalk |
Last Updated: Apr. 27, 2026
