Let's talk: You'd like to know who watches over health care in Arizona?

If you need to know what part of the Arizona government is responsible for regulating a health care facility or service, you will need top sort through multiple sub-sections of the Arizona Department of Health Services. The Department has a Division of Licensing Services, which is divided further into specialized offices. It is these smaller offices which are the watch dogs over health care facilities and services.

Nursing Homes
Arizona nursing homes are licensed by the state through the Office of Long-Term Care Licensing in the Division of Licensing Services, under the Arizona Department of Health Services. Besides state licensing, some nursing homes are certified to provide services under Medicare and Medicaid, and must meet federal regulations. The Office of LongTerm Care Licensing enforces state and federal regulations of nursing homes by conducting regular surveys and by investigating complaints.

Assisted Living, Adult Foster Care Homes, and Adult Day Health Care
The Office of Assisted Living Licensing issues licences and regulates Arizona Assisted Living facilities and programs. Adult Foster Care Homes, and Adult Day Health Care are included in this category.

Medicare Certified/State Licensed Home Health Agencies and Hospices
The Division of Licensing Services Office of Medical Facilities Licensing licenses and certifies these, along with hospitals, clinics and simioiar facilities/services.

How can I register a complaint?
If your situation involves a nursing home, there is an on-line complaint form at Long Term Care Licensing Online Complaint Form.

For Assisted Living, Adult Foster Care Homes, and Adult Day Health Care, use Office of Assisted Living Licensing Online Complaint Form

Complaints for Home Health Agencies and Hospices should use the Office of Medical Licensing Online Complaint Form

The Division of Licensing Services also publishes some helpful advice about how to proceed and what to expect at Complaint Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

More Info
We have more information about how long term care facilities and agencies are regulated, and about filing complaints, at Let's talk: Who is watching over health care in your state?

Good luck! You are invited to drop me a line and tell me your story about how you solved situations in long term care for your loved one. We may publish selected ones if they would help educate our audience (we will not include names or email addresses). Click to send your email.