State Nursing Home or Private Nursing Home? Differences and Admission Requirements

The most basic difference between state nursing homes and private nursing homes/care homes is that admission to state institutions requires certain criteria to be met (such as income status, health report, social security) and there is usually a waiting period, while at private institutions the admission process moves faster and the scope of care is determined together with the family in a personalized way. Which one is suitable for you depends on your loved one’s needs, the urgency, and the intensity of care you prefer.

How Do State Nursing Homes Work?

Admission to state-supported nursing homes is generally carried out through processes under the Ministry of Family and Social Services, and criteria such as the applicant’s income status, health report and social security status are assessed. Waiting periods can occur in areas with high demand. Fees are determined according to an official schedule updated annually by the ministry.

How Do Private Nursing Homes Work?

At private institutions, the admission process generally moves faster; the family visits the institution, a needs assessment is made, and move-in can be planned in a short time. The scope of care is shaped according to the individual’s real needs rather than a standard program. This flexibility provides a major advantage especially when an urgent need arises (such as after surgery or a sudden health issue).

Which Is More Suitable for Whom?

State nursing homes can be considered for families who need state support due to economic constraints and can accept the waiting period. However, for families who need fast move-in, a personalized care plan, or a specific service (such as Alzheimer’s care or palliative care), private institutions are generally a more suitable option. We recommend also considering the criteria in our article Choosing a Care Home: What Should You Pay Attention To? when making this decision.

GAYA Huzurevi Is a Private Institution

GAYA Huzurevi serves as a private institution at its 5 branches in Istanbul, Ankara, Bursa, Izmit and Germany. This way, families can have their loved one’s needs assessed quickly without going through a standard waiting process, and clarify which of our 13 different services — from Alzheimer’s care to palliative care — they need.

Frequently Asked Questions

What requirements are needed to enter a state nursing home?

Criteria such as income status, health report and social security status are generally assessed; you need to apply to the relevant institution for exact requirements.

Is there a waiting period at a private nursing home?

Generally no; the admission process moves faster at private institutions, but this can vary from institution to institution.

Is GAYA Huzurevi state-supported or private?

GAYA Huzurevi is a private institution; we offer personalized care plans at all our branches.