Berkeley Pines Skilled Nursing Center is a small, for-profit skilled nursing facility located in Berkeley, California. With a capacity of 36 beds, it offers both short-term rehabilitation services and long-term care under corporate ownership. This facility participates in both Medicare and Medicaid programs, making it accessible to a diverse range of residents with varying medical and financial needs. Berkeley Pines is dedicated to providing support for individuals who require daily assistance due to chronic illness, injury, or the natural effects of aging, and it is not part of a continuing care retirement community network.
The center is rated "Average" for its short-term rehabilitation services, providing care for patients transitioning from a hospital stay, such as those recovering from a stroke, heart attack, infection, or injury. Residents in short-term rehabilitation benefit from focused medical attention designed to aid in their recovery and return home whenever possible. On average, residents at Berkeley Pines receive three hours and thirty-nine minutes of nurse staffing per day, an important factor in facilitating adequate care and support during their rehabilitation. The center closely manages falls with major injury, reporting a rate of 0.0%, and provides comprehensive vaccination coverage with over 98% of residents receiving the annual flu vaccine. Its emergency room visit rate for long-term residents is low, at 0.8 visits per 1000 patient days, and a high percentage of residents—89%—are able to maintain their ability to perform daily self-care activities independently.
In terms of long-term care, Berkeley Pines Skilled Nursing Center has been rated as "High Performing." This recognition reflects the facility's strong performance in areas such as consistent nurse staffing, including on weekends, and its commitment to maintaining the ability of residents to manage basic activities of daily living such as eating, moving, and using the bathroom. The focus on health maintenance is underscored by high rates of flu vaccination and low rates of emergency room transfers, indicating effective on-site care and chronic disease management.
Routine inspections ensure that safety, nutrition, and overall wellbeing are continuously prioritized at Berkeley Pines. All essential staff, including nursing and nutritional support, play integral roles in maintaining professional standards, particularly in food service and dietary support. Residents receive food prepared to meet individual dietary needs and are offered meals that are intended to be palatable and safely served at appetizing temperatures. Pharmaceutical services are also in place, providing residents with necessary medications under the supervision of licensed professionals.
Berkeley Pines Skilled Nursing Center’s commitment to care does not stop at clinical support. The staff is focused on creating a supportive and comforting environment for residents, with programs and schedules adapted to their needs. This includes a pest control program and policies governing food brought in by families, ensuring overall resident safety and satisfaction. The facility’s infrastructure is monitored for equipment safety, and programs are in place to maintain compliance with national health and safety standards. All inspection findings are promptly addressed, and ongoing improvements are part of the operational philosophy.
For those seeking a skilled nursing facility that strives to balance rehabilitation goals with long-term care, Berkeley Pines Skilled Nursing Center offers a professionally managed, resident-centered approach. Its small size allows for individualized attention, supporting residents in both regaining independence after acute illnesses and maintaining their quality of life over the longer term. The home stands out for its consistency in staffing and its efforts to maintain a healthy, safe, and amenable living environment for all who reside there.