U.S. News & World Report released its 2027 rankings of nursing homes and skilled nursing facilities, and the Phoenix metropolitan area earned a notable showing. Thirty‑five facilities received a “High Performing” designation for short‑term rehabilitation, long‑term care, or both, according to the organization’s metro‑area listings.

What the ratings measure

U.S. News evaluates short‑term rehabilitation and long‑term care separately, applying 17 quality measures to each category. The metrics include staffing levels per resident per day, hospital readmission rates for long‑term care residents, and the amount of physical therapy provided per resident per day.

Phoenix ranks among the nation’s top metros

Jordan Derk, a senior care researcher with U.S. News, said Arizona performed very well in the national analysis. Phoenix ranked in the top ten metropolitan areas in the country by the sheer number of facilities earning the top designation.

Across the United States, the analysis found that top‑rated homes generally staff more caregivers per resident and experience fewer hospital readmissions than other facilities. They also deliver roughly twice as much physical therapy per resident each day compared with the national average.

Local facilities recognized

Among the Phoenix‑area homes highlighted:

• Acacia Health Center in Phoenix – high‑performing in both short‑term rehabilitation and long‑term care.
• Friendship Village of Tempe – high‑performing in both categories.
• Arizona State Veteran Home in Phoenix – high‑performing for long‑term care.
• Advanced Health Care of Glendale – high‑performing for short‑term rehabilitation.
• Advanced Health Care of Mesa – high‑performing for short‑term rehabilitation.

Guidance for families

Derk urged families to use the U.S. News ratings as a starting point in their decision‑making process. He recommended discussing the data with physicians, discharge planners, social workers, or other members of the care team, and, when possible, visiting the facilities in person.

“Look at the quality metrics that we have on there, but then take that information to their care team, whether it’s the physician or discharge planners or social workers or family members who might be part of the decision‑making process,” Derk said. “Discuss those together and then, if possible, try to visit the facility.”

If an in‑person tour isn’t feasible, families can call the homes to ask about services that matter most to their loved one, such as the amount of physical therapy offered or the facility’s hospital readmission rates.

Cost considerations

The U.S. News ratings do not include cost information. Medicare typically does not cover long‑term custodial care, though it may cover short‑term skilled rehabilitation when eligibility requirements are met. Families should inquire directly with each facility about costs, insurance coverage, and any out‑of‑pocket expenses before making a final choice.

These rankings provide a valuable benchmark for seniors and their families seeking quality care in the Phoenix area, underscoring facilities that excel in staffing, therapy services, and overall resident outcomes.

Original reporting: azfamily KTVK/KPHO Phoenix (news) — read the source article.