Which of the following describes the primary source of financial support for nursing homes in 2022?

The primary source of financial support for nursing homes in 2022 is public funds. This encompasses government programs like Medicare and Medicaid, which play a significant role in financing the long-term care of patients within these facilities. Medicare primarily covers short-term rehabilitation for seniors, while Medicaid provides essential support for individuals with low income who require long-term nursing home care. Given the high costs associated with nursing home care, reliance on these public funds is critical, as many residents depend on them for affordable access to necessary services.

Private health insurance, philanthropic donations, and investment income can contribute to the financial landscape of nursing homes but do so to a lesser extent. Private insurance often does not cover extended stays, leading many individuals to seek aid from public programs. Philanthropic donations can provide supplementary financial support but are not a primary funding source. Similarly, investment income can be beneficial but typically does not constitute a significant portion of the funding that nursing homes rely on for day-to-day operations and care delivery. Therefore, public funds remain the backbone of financial support for nursing homes, ensuring that they can meet the needs of their residents.