A special-care home is a facility that provides institutional long term care services to meet the needs of individuals usually having heavy care needs, that cannot appropriately be met in the community through home/community based services. Special-care homes are sometimes referred to as nursing homes.

Special-care homes may also provide support to family care providers through respite care and adult day programs.

Special care homes are designated by the Minister under The Regional Health Services Act. Regional Health Authorities may operate a special-care home directly or through an affiliation contract.

Individuals are admitted to special-care homes on the basis of assessed need. The assessment and priorizing of individuals for placement in special-care homes is the responsibility of the regional health authorities. Individuals who wish to request an assessment should contact their local regional health authority.