Top Skilled Nursing Providers to Watch in 2025

The skilled nursing industry is evolving rapidly, with larger providers expanding through acquisitions and partnerships. Economic challenges, staffing shortages, and increasing healthcare demands are shaping the landscape for Medicare skilled nursing providers. In 2025, five standout companies are leading the way by focusing on efficiency, value-based care, and innovative technology.

1. PruittHealth: Expanding with Innovation

PruittHealth continues to grow despite industry challenges, focusing on Medicare Advantage, workforce development, and technology. The company is investing in a $385 million healthcare and retirement community in North Carolina, alongside multiple facility upgrades.

PruittHealth is also improving patient care through its Medicare Advantage program, PruittHealth Premier, which aims to reduce hospital readmissions. Additionally, its partnership with Accenture utilizes AI-powered documentation tools, cutting administrative burdens and boosting financial efficiency.

2. Covenant Living Communities: Streamlining Care with Technology

Covenant Living Communities is transforming Medicare skilled nursing with a centralized intake model that simplifies admissions and improves reimbursement processes. Operating in 11 states, Covenant handles the complexities of managed care and Medicare Part B, ensuring smoother revenue cycles.

The organization leverages electronic billing systems and automation to enhance accuracy and cash flow. Additionally, Covenant focuses on contract renegotiation strategies to maximize reimbursement rates and reduce claim denials.

3. PACS Group: A Nursing Home Giant Facing Uncertainty

PACS Group, one of the largest skilled nursing providers, recently faced federal investigations regarding its billing practices. However, the company continues to operate 200+ facilities across nine states and is focused on growth through acquisitions and real estate expansion.

Despite challenges, PACS maintains high-quality ratings and strong occupancy rates, with its operating partner, CareTrust, expressing confidence in its future. The company’s next moves will determine its stability in 2025.

4. Journey: A Fast-Growing Regional Provider

Journey has quickly expanded to 22 facilities across six states, utilizing a regional cluster model to improve staffing and efficiency. By focusing on local networks, Journey enhances care coordination and reduces reliance on agency labor, a significant cost-saving strategy.

The company is prioritizing workforce development and regulatory compliance, ensuring quality outcomes and cultural transformation in its newly acquired facilities. With a strong presence in Georgia and Kentucky, Journey is set for steady growth in 2025 and beyond.

5. ArchCare: Leading in Specialized Care

As a Catholic healthcare system, ArchCare integrates nursing homes, home care, hospice, and acute care hospitals to provide seamless patient transitions. The company’s partnerships with top hospitals, like Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, have helped expand specialized post-acute care services.

ArchCare participates in CMS programs like GUIDE and TEAM, focusing on dementia care and bundled payments to enhance patient outcomes. With a commitment to value-based care and hospital partnerships, ArchCare is a top provider to watch in 2025.

The Future of Medicare Skilled Nursing Providers

As Medicare skilled nursing providers face workforce challenges and rising healthcare demands, these companies are leading the industry with innovative care models and strategic expansions. By leveraging technology, value-based care, and efficient operations, these providers are shaping the future of skilled nursing in 2025.