What is the main goal of the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1987 (OBRA '87)?

The main goal of the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1987 (OBRA '87) is to ensure the highest practicable well-being of nursing home residents. This legislation was a significant milestone in the evolution of nursing home care, emphasizing the quality of care and life for residents. It established comprehensive standards for the treatment and rights of individuals living in long-term care facilities.

Under OBRA '87, regulations were put in place to enhance the quality of services provided to nursing home residents, including areas such as person-centered care, dignity, and overall quality of life. The law mandates facilities to promote the physical, mental, and psychosocial well-being of residents, ensuring that they receive appropriate care tailored to their individual needs.

The focus on well-being goes beyond mere health care to consider the overall quality of life and personal fulfillment of residents, emphasizing the importance of individualized care plans and minimizing unnecessary restraints. This approach fundamentally changed the landscape of nursing home care and continues to influence practices today.