Leveraging the PASRR process to divert and transition elders with mental illness from nursing facilities

This study examines how some states use Pre-Admission Screening and Resident Review (PASRR) processes to provide opportunities for nursing facility diversion and/or transition for elders with mental illness and highlights potential promising practices from selected states. Document reviews and interviews were conducted with key informants across 13 states. Key themes presented are 1) philosophies of diversion/transition embedded into PASRR processes, 2) questions on screening tools used to promote diversion/transition, 3) PASRR authorities' collaboration with other initiatives to promote diversion/transition, and 4) the extent to which states used PASRR to help identify mental health supports needed by nursing facility residents. Findings provide policy-relevant information to help states consider enhancement of their PASRR processes to further support nursing facility diversion and transition for persons with mental illness and improved mental health services for those in nursing facilities.