NORTH BETHESDA, Md. (October 9, 2026) – Hebrew Home of Greater Washington, the flagship skilled nursing center at Charles E. Smith Life Communities (CESLC), is one of only 37 nursing homes in Maryland to receive the new “High Performing Facility” designation from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).
The designation is part of CMS’ recently launched Risk-Based Survey process, which allows eligible skilled nursing centers to undergo a more focused standard recertification survey. To qualify, skilled nursing centers must maintain a five-star overall rating, at least a three-star staffing rating, and meet additional criteria addressing survey history, data accuracy, and other factors.
“Our associates work diligently year-round to uphold rigorous standards,” said Brenda L. Rice, CESLC’s vice president of operations. “This designation offers another meaningful indicator for individuals and families seeking skilled nursing care that Hebrew Home is a trusted choice in our region.”
“Exceptional care is a team effort at Hebrew Home,” said Alejandro Small, executive director of Hebrew Home of Greater Washington. “I am proud to see our physicians, nurses, aides, and the entire team recognized for their dedication to delivering the care and services our patients and residents deserve every day.”
The designation, displayed as a trophy icon alongside existing star ratings on CMS’ Nursing Home Care Compare website, identifies skilled nursing centers with fewer citations, higher staffing levels, and strong performance on other quality indicators. The “High Performing Facility” icon will remain on a skilled nursing center’s profile while it qualifies for the Risk-Based Survey process.
About Charles E. Smith Life Communities
Charles E. Smith Life Communities (CESLC) is a Jewish, nonprofit, nationally recognized leader in senior living and health care located in Montgomery County, Maryland. CESLC is committed to being the provider of choice for innovative programs and services that enrich and enhance the quality of life for older adults.
Founded in 1910 to house Jewish older adults in need, CESLC has grown into a vibrant community serving more than 1,400 older adults of all faiths and backgrounds. Today, CESLC offers a full continuum of senior living, health care, and community-based services on its 38-acre North Bethesda campus and throughout the region through Hirsh Health Center, SmithLife® Homecare, and other specialized programs.
Our campus includes independent living, affordable and middle-market senior housing, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, rehabilitation, and long-term care—creating communities that meet the evolving needs and expectations of today’s older adults.
