What is the role of the North Carolina Division of Health Service Regulation (DHSR) in relation to nursing homes?

The North Carolina Division of Health Service Regulation (DHSR) plays a critical role in the oversight of nursing homes within the state. Its primary function is to regulate and license these facilities, ensuring that they adhere to established laws and regulations designed to protect the health and safety of residents. This includes regular inspections, monitoring compliance with both state and federal guidelines, and responding to complaints.

By maintaining these regulatory standards, the DHSR is instrumental in upholding the quality of care provided in nursing homes, addressing aspects such as resident rights, staffing qualifications, and safety measures. This oversight is essential for protecting vulnerable populations who depend on these services for their health and well-being.

In contrast, the other options represent functions that are not within the purview of the DHSR. Funding construction is typically managed through different governmental or private avenues, while administering pension funds is a responsibility that usually falls under HR or financial departments of the facilities themselves. The oversight of food and beverage services, while important for quality assurance, falls under specific health department regulations rather than being a primary function of the DHSR as a whole.