Approximately how many Americans do the 15,600 CMS provide services to each year?

The correct answer reflects that the 15,600 Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) authorized facilities provide services to approximately 3 million Americans each year. This number encompasses the wide array of services provided to residents in skilled nursing facilities, which are essential for the care of elderly and disabled individuals.

This statistic underscores the significant role these facilities play in the healthcare landscape, particularly for those in need of long-term care. Knowing the scale of this service helps to highlight the importance of infection prevention practices within these environments, given the vulnerable populations they serve. Understanding the magnitude of care provided also emphasizes the critical need for effective monitoring, staff training, and adherence to infection control protocols to protect residents' health and safety.