Can Administrator Hours Count Toward Staffing Hrs? Understanding 59A-36.010

Staffing in Assisted Living Facilities (ALFs) is one of the most critical areas that surveyors review. Not only do facilities have to ensure they meet minimum staffing requirements, but they also must follow the rules for how staff hours are calculated and documented.

Florida Administrative Code 59A-36.010 Staffing Standards (a)(8) provides important clarification on whether administrator or manager hours can count toward required staffing:

“The administrator or manager’s time may be counted for the purpose of meeting the required staffing hours, provided the administrator or manager is actively involved in the day-to-day operation of the facility, including making decisions and providing supervision for all aspects of resident care, and is listed on the facility’s staffing schedule.”

What This Means for Facilities

Many administrators assume that their role is purely oversight and doesn’t contribute to direct staffing. However, the regulation makes it clear: administrators and managers can count toward minimum staffing hours—if certain conditions are met.

To Qualify:

1. Active Involvement 
   • The administrator or manager must be engaged in daily operations. 
   • This includes supervising staff, interacting with residents, and making real-time decisions. 
2. Resident Care Oversight 
   • The role must directly relate to resident care—not just office work. 
   • Surveyors will want to see evidence that the administrator is providing hands-on supervision. 
3. Staffing Schedule Listing 
   • The administrator’s or manager’s hours must appear on the facility’s official staffing schedule. 
   • If it’s not documented, it doesn’t count. 

Best Practices for Compliance ✅

• Include Yourself on the Schedule: Administrators should ensure their hours are clearly listed alongside other staff. 
• Document Your Activities: Keep notes or logs showing involvement in supervision, care planning, or resident oversight. 
• Be Present: Inspectors will notice if the administrator is rarely seen outside the office. Regular visibility on the floor strengthens compliance. 
• Cross-Train When Needed: If the administrator helps cover resident care tasks during staffing shortages, document it properly. 

Bottom Line

Yes, administrator and manager hours can count toward minimum staffing, but only if the person is actively engaged in operations, providing care supervision, and listed on the staffing schedule. This regulation underscores the importance of strong leadership presence in day-to-day resident care.

👉 Tip for Administrators: Don’t underestimate your role—your hours can help meet staffing requirements, but only if you show regulators that you are hands-on and accountable in resident care operations.