All states › California › Santa Ana › The Hills Post Acute
1800 Old Tustin Avenue Santa Ana, CA 92705 · Orange County
All 8 nursing homes in Santa Ana, CA (8 take Medicaid)
CMS certification number 555765 · See this home on Medicare Care Compare
Is The Hills Post Acute a good nursing home? Reviews, ratings and inspection record
There are no official resident reviews of nursing homes: Medicare's Care Compare publishes inspections, staffing and quality data instead. Here is what that record shows for The Hills Post Acute as of October 2026.
CMS rates it 1 out of 5 stars overall, below the California average of 3.2.
Online reviews from families and residents are on Google Maps and other sites; they reflect individual experiences and aren't checked by CMS. The full inspection reports, including what inspectors observed, are on Medicare Care Compare.
Staffing
Nursing staff spend about 4.10 hours per resident per day at The Hills Post Acute, below the California median of 4.27 (US median: 3.72). About 0.43 of those hours are from registered nurses. On weekends it falls to 3.72 hours, 9% below its all-week average. 31.7% of nursing staff left within a year (California median 36%).
About this nursing home
Paying for care at The Hills Post Acute: Medicare and Medicaid
The Hills Post Acute is certified for both Medicare and Medicaid. Medicare Part A can cover a short skilled-nursing or rehab stay here after a qualifying hospital stay of at least three inpatient days (observation days don't count), for up to 100 days per benefit period. Medicaid can pay for long-term care for residents who meet California's income and asset rules. Being certified doesn't guarantee a Medicaid bed is open, so ask whether the home accepts residents whose Medicaid application is still pending.
In 2026 Medicare covers days 1–20 in full after the Part A deductible ($1,736 per benefit period); for days 21–100 you pay $217 a day; after day 100 you pay all costs. Medicare doesn't pay for long-term custodial care. Medicare's coverage rules.
Health inspections
The most recent standard inspection was on May 6, 2026 and found 25 deficiencies, plus 3 from complaint inspections in the same period. In total, inspectors issued 115 citations in the last three years.
Each citation has a scope and severity letter from A to L. A–C: potential for minimal harm. D–F: potential for more than minimal harm. G–I: actual harm. J–L: immediate jeopardy to resident health or safety.
What the inspections found
Over the last three years, inspectors issued 115 citations at The Hills Post Acute across 13 inspection dates, 43 of them from complaint investigations. None were at the actual-harm or immediate-jeopardy levels; 105 were "potential for more than minimal harm" (D–F) and 10 were minimal (A–C). The most common areas cited were quality of life and care (29) and resident rights (22). The most serious was cited under the CMS rule to "provide safe and appropriate respiratory care for a resident when needed" (tag F0695, level E, May 6, 2026).
June 30, 2026 · 3 citations · includes complaint inspection
DProvide enough food/fluids to maintain a resident's health.
DProvide pharmaceutical services to meet the needs of each resident and employ or obtain the services of a licensed pharmacist.
DProvide and implement an infection prevention and control program.
May 6, 2026 · 25 citations
EProvide safe and appropriate respiratory care for a resident when needed.
EProvide safe, appropriate dialysis care/services for a resident who requires such services.
EEnsure drugs and biologicals used in the facility are labeled in accordance with currently accepted professional principles; and all drugs and biologicals must be stored in locked compartments, separately locked, compartments for controlled drugs.
EEnsure menus must meet the nutritional needs of residents, be prepared in advance, be followed, be updated, be reviewed by dietician, and meet the needs of the resident.
EProcure food from sources approved or considered satisfactory and store, prepare, distribute and serve food in accordance with professional standards.
EProvide and implement an infection prevention and control program.
DHonor the resident's right to a dignified existence, self-determination, communication, and to exercise his or her rights.
DReasonably accommodate the needs and preferences of each resident.
DHonor the resident's right to a safe, clean, comfortable and homelike environment, including but not limited to receiving treatment and supports for daily living safely.
DProvide the required documentation or notification related to the resident's needs, appeal rights, or bed-hold policies.
DPASARR screening for Mental disorders or Intellectual Disabilities
DDevelop and implement a complete care plan that meets all the resident's needs, with timetables and actions that can be measured.
DDevelop the complete care plan within 7 days of the comprehensive assessment; and prepared, reviewed, and revised by a team of health professionals.
DProvide enough food/fluids to maintain a resident's health.
DEnsure that feeding tubes are not used unless there is a medical reason and the resident agrees; and provide appropriate care for a resident with a feeding tube.
DProvide for the safe, appropriate administration of IV fluids for a resident when needed.
DProvide pharmaceutical services to meet the needs of each resident and employ or obtain the services of a licensed pharmacist.
DEnsure a licensed pharmacist perform a monthly drug regimen review, including the medical chart, following irregularity reporting guidelines in developed policies and procedures.
DEnsure each resident’s drug regimen must be free from unnecessary drugs.
DEnsure food and drink is palatable, attractive, and at a safe and appetizing temperature.
DEnsure each resident receives and the facility provides food that accommodates resident allergies, intolerances, and preferences, as well as appealing options.
DHave a policy regarding use and storage of foods brought to residents by family and other visitors.
DSafeguard resident-identifiable information and/or maintain medical records on each resident that are in accordance with accepted professional standards.
DArrange for the provision of hospice services or assist the resident in transferring to a facility that will arrange for the provision of hospice services.
BEncode each resident’s assessment data and transmit these data to the State within 7 days of assessment.
March 24, 2025 · 15 citations
EProvide for the safe, appropriate administration of IV fluids for a resident when needed.
EProcure food from sources approved or considered satisfactory and store, prepare, distribute and serve food in accordance with professional standards.
DHonor the resident's right to a safe, clean, comfortable and homelike environment, including but not limited to receiving treatment and supports for daily living safely.
DDevelop the complete care plan within 7 days of the comprehensive assessment; and prepared, reviewed, and revised by a team of health professionals.
DProvide care and assistance to perform activities of daily living for any resident who is unable.
DProvide enough food/fluids to maintain a resident's health.
DProvide safe and appropriate respiratory care for a resident when needed.
DProvide safe, appropriate dialysis care/services for a resident who requires such services.
DProvide pharmaceutical services to meet the needs of each resident and employ or obtain the services of a licensed pharmacist.
DEnsure drugs and biologicals used in the facility are labeled in accordance with currently accepted professional principles; and all drugs and biologicals must be stored in locked compartments, separately locked, compartments for controlled drugs.
DProvide special eating equipment and utensils for residents who need them and appropriate assistance.
DSafeguard resident-identifiable information and/or maintain medical records on each resident that are in accordance with accepted professional standards.
DProvide and implement an infection prevention and control program.
BDevelop and implement a complete care plan that meets all the resident's needs, with timetables and actions that can be measured.
BEnsure each resident receives and the facility provides food that accommodates resident allergies, intolerances, and preferences, as well as appealing options.
February 14, 2025 · 1 citation · includes complaint inspection
DEnsure each resident receives and the facility provides food prepared in a form designed to meet individual needs.
October 29, 2024 · 1 citation · includes complaint inspection
DProvide pharmaceutical services to meet the needs of each resident and employ or obtain the services of a licensed pharmacist.
July 17, 2024 · 1 citation · includes complaint inspection
BProvide appropriate treatment and care according to orders, resident’s preferences and goals.
June 25, 2024 · 1 citation · includes complaint inspection
DSafeguard resident-identifiable information and/or maintain medical records on each resident that are in accordance with accepted professional standards.
May 3, 2024 · 1 citation · includes complaint inspection
DProvide pharmaceutical services to meet the needs of each resident and employ or obtain the services of a licensed pharmacist.
February 8, 2024 · 37 citations · includes complaint inspection
EEnsure drugs and biologicals used in the facility are labeled in accordance with currently accepted professional principles; and all drugs and biologicals must be stored in locked compartments, separately locked, compartments for controlled drugs.
EProvide and implement an infection prevention and control program.
EImplement a program that monitors antibiotic use.
DEnsure that residents are fully informed and understand their health status, care and treatments.
DAllow residents to self-administer drugs if determined clinically appropriate.
DKeep residents' personal and medical records private and confidential.
DHonor the resident's right to a safe, clean, comfortable and homelike environment, including but not limited to receiving treatment and supports for daily living safely.
DHonor the resident's right to voice grievances without discrimination or reprisal and the facility must establish a grievance policy and make prompt efforts to resolve grievances.
DNotify the resident or the resident’s representative in writing how long the nursing home will hold the resident’s bed in cases of transfer to a hospital or therapeutic leave.
DCoordinate assessments with the pre-admission screening and resident review program; and referring for services as needed.
DCreate and put into place a plan for meeting the resident's most immediate needs within 48 hours of being admitted
DProvide activities to meet all resident's needs.
DProvide appropriate treatment and care according to orders, resident’s preferences and goals.
DProvide appropriate pressure ulcer care and prevent new ulcers from developing.
DEnsure that a nursing home area is free from accident hazards and provides adequate supervision to prevent accidents.
DProvide enough food/fluids to maintain a resident's health.
DEnsure that feeding tubes are not used unless there is a medical reason and the resident agrees; and provide appropriate care for a resident with a feeding tube.
DProvide for the safe, appropriate administration of IV fluids for a resident when needed.
DProvide safe and appropriate respiratory care for a resident when needed.
DProvide safe, appropriate pain management for a resident who requires such services.
DProvide safe, appropriate dialysis care/services for a resident who requires such services.
DTry different approaches before using a bed rail. If a bed rail is needed, the facility must (1) assess a resident for safety risk; (2) review these risks and benefits with the resident/representative; (3) get informed consent; and (4) Correctly install and maintain the bed rail.
DProvide pharmaceutical services to meet the needs of each resident and employ or obtain the services of a licensed pharmacist.
DEnsure a licensed pharmacist perform a monthly drug regimen review, including the medical chart, following irregularity reporting guidelines in developed policies and procedures.
DEnsure each resident’s drug regimen must be free from unnecessary drugs.
DImplement gradual dose reductions(GDR) and non-pharmacological interventions, unless contraindicated, prior to initiating or instead of continuing psychotropic medication; and PRN orders for psychotropic medications are only used when the medication is necessary and PRN use is limited.
DEnsure medication error rates are not 5 percent or greater.
DEnsure menus must meet the nutritional needs of residents, be prepared in advance, be followed, be updated, be reviewed by dietician, and meet the needs of the resident.
DEnsure each resident receives and the facility provides food that accommodates resident allergies, intolerances, and preferences, as well as appealing options.
DProcure food from sources approved or considered satisfactory and store, prepare, distribute and serve food in accordance with professional standards.
DSafeguard resident-identifiable information and/or maintain medical records on each resident that are in accordance with accepted professional standards.
DArrange for the provision of hospice services or assist the resident in transferring to a facility that will arrange for the provision of hospice services.
DRegularly inspect all bed frames, mattresses, and bed rails (if any) for safety; and all bed rails and mattresses must attach safely to the bed frame.
BAllow resident to participate in the development and implementation of his or her person-centered plan of care.
BDevelop and implement a complete care plan that meets all the resident's needs, with timetables and actions that can be measured.
BDevelop the complete care plan within 7 days of the comprehensive assessment; and prepared, reviewed, and revised by a team of health professionals.
BEnsure therapeutic diets are prescribed by the attending physician and may be delegated to a registered or licensed dietitian, to the extent allowed by State law.
January 23, 2024 · 19 citations · includes complaint inspection
EReasonably accommodate the needs and preferences of each resident.
EProvide appropriate treatment and care according to orders, resident’s preferences and goals.
EProvide enough nursing staff every day to meet the needs of every resident; and have a licensed nurse in charge on each shift.
DHonor the resident's right to and the facility must promote and facilitate resident self-determination through support of resident choice.
DHonor the resident's right to request, refuse, and/or discontinue treatment, to participate in or refuse to participate in experimental research, and to formulate an advance directive.
DHonor the resident's right to a safe, clean, comfortable and homelike environment, including but not limited to receiving treatment and supports for daily living safely.
DNot transfer or discharge a resident without an adequate reason; and must provide documentation and convey specific information when a resident is transferred or discharged.
DProvide timely notification to the resident, and if applicable to the resident representative and ombudsman, before transfer or discharge, including appeal rights.
DPrepare residents for a safe transfer or discharge from the nursing home.
DDevelop the complete care plan within 7 days of the comprehensive assessment; and prepared, reviewed, and revised by a team of health professionals.
DPlan the resident's discharge to meet the resident's goals and needs.
DProvide appropriate pressure ulcer care and prevent new ulcers from developing.
DEnsure that a nursing home area is free from accident hazards and provides adequate supervision to prevent accidents.
DProvide appropriate care for residents who are continent or incontinent of bowel/bladder, appropriate catheter care, and appropriate care to prevent urinary tract infections.
DProvide safe, appropriate pain management for a resident who requires such services.
DProvide pharmaceutical services to meet the needs of each resident and employ or obtain the services of a licensed pharmacist.
DImplement gradual dose reductions(GDR) and non-pharmacological interventions, unless contraindicated, prior to initiating or instead of continuing psychotropic medication; and PRN orders for psychotropic medications are only used when the medication is necessary and PRN use is limited.
DEnsure that residents are free from significant medication errors.
BDispose of garbage and refuse properly.
December 28, 2023 · 5 citations · includes complaint inspection
DProvide appropriate care for a resident to maintain and/or improve range of motion (ROM), limited ROM and/or mobility, unless a decline is for a medical reason.
DEnsure each resident’s drug regimen must be free from unnecessary drugs.
DProcure food from sources approved or considered satisfactory and store, prepare, distribute and serve food in accordance with professional standards.
DSafeguard resident-identifiable information and/or maintain medical records on each resident that are in accordance with accepted professional standards.
DProvide and implement an infection prevention and control program.
November 30, 2023 · 2 citations · includes complaint inspection
DReasonably accommodate the needs and preferences of each resident.
DSafeguard resident-identifiable information and/or maintain medical records on each resident that are in accordance with accepted professional standards.
October 18, 2023 · 4 citations · includes complaint inspection
DProvide timely notification to the resident, and if applicable to the resident representative and ombudsman, before transfer or discharge, including appeal rights.
DNotify the resident or the resident’s representative in writing how long the nursing home will hold the resident’s bed in cases of transfer to a hospital or therapeutic leave.
DProvide pharmaceutical services to meet the needs of each resident and employ or obtain the services of a licensed pharmacist.
BEnsure the facility is licensed under applicable State and local law and operates and provides services in compliance with all applicable Federal, State, and local laws, regulations, and codes, and with accepted professional standards.
Questions to ask on a tour of The Hills Post Acute
- What do families most often ask you about before moving in?
- Do you have a Medicaid bed open now, and will you admit someone whose Medicaid application is still pending?
- When is the first care-plan meeting, and can family attend?
Questions come from this home's CMS data: its inspections, staffing and ownership record.
Fines and payment denials
CMS reports no fines or payment denials for this home in the last three years.
Rating history
| CMS month | Overall | Inspection | Staffing | Quality |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| October 2026 | 1/5 | 1/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| August 2026 | 1/5 | 1/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 |
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Location
Hospitals near The Hills Post Acute
The Medicare-certified hospitals closest to this nursing home, with their CMS data. Ask the home which hospital it usually sends residents to.
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0.8 mi
Orange County Global Medical Center Santa AnaEmergency room ★★☆☆☆ Medicare overall 2 of 5Median ER visit 3h 6m for patients treated and sent home
- 1.2 mi
- 1.4 mi
Hospital ratings, ER visit times and more at Hospitals In Each State
Source: CMS Care Compare. Distances are approximate.
Nearby nursing homes
More nursing homes near The Hills Post Acute › All nursing homes in Santa Ana ›
Compare The Hills Post Acute with the 3 closest homes side by side ›
Higher-rated nursing homes within 10 miles
- Town & Country · Santa Ana · 5 stars · 1.3 mi
- Sun Mar Nursing Center · Anaheim · 5 stars · 7.2 mi
- La Palma Nursing Center · Anaheim · 5 stars · 7.8 mi
- Foothill Regional Medical Center D/P SNF · Tustin · 4 stars · 2.3 mi
Other The Ensign Group nursing homes in California
- Pacifica Nursing and Rehabilitation Center · Pacifica · 5 stars
- Upland Rehabilitation and Care Center · Upland · 5 stars
- The Springs at Pacific Regent · San Diego · 5 stars
- Grossmont Post Acute Care · La Mesa · 5 stars
- Grand Terrace Health Care Center · Grand Terrace · 5 stars
- The Grove Care and Wellness · Riverside · 5 stars
Affiliation comes from CMS's affiliated-entity data, October 2026. All 347 The Ensign Group nursing homes ›
Source: CMS Provider Data Catalog (provider information, health deficiencies, penalties), October 2026. Inspection citations and penalties cover the last three years. Nursing Homes In Each State is independent and not affiliated with CMS or Medicare. About the data · Report a problem with this listing. Is this your nursing home? Feature it here.