1. Identify the care setting
Use Maine DHHS records for assisted living and residential care. Use Medicare Care Compare and CMS records for certified nursing homes. A DHHS license record and a CMS nursing-home profile are not interchangeable.
2. Search by the official name or license number
Names can vary, so the most reliable lookup uses the Maine license number or CMS Certification Number shown on the home’s directory page.
3. Confirm the identity
- Match the street address and city—not only the name.
- Check that the license or certification number matches.
- Review the listed status and expiration or processing date.
- If two services share an address, do not assume they share ownership, admissions, or transfer policies.
4. Understand what the record leaves out
Public records generally do not prove current openings, current pricing, atmosphere, a family-facing phone number, or whether the setting can meet one person’s needs. A licensed bed count is capacity, not availability.
5. Save what you checked
Record the source URL, date, license or certification number, and the staff member who confirmed important details. Recheck shortly before admission because records and availability change.
See something inconsistent? Verify it with the home and the appropriate public agency before relying on it.