Since 2019, several nursing homes in Lackawanna County have faced collective fines exceeding $1.3 million, as reported by The Times-Tribune. These penalties primarily stem from the substandard care provided to residents. Five nursing homes in Lackawanna County account for one million dollars of this total fine, and they are part of the “thirty-two most penalized homes among the 677 in the state,” according to The Times. The Gino J. Merli Veterans Center also received a $35,000 fine for incidents of “physical assaults” among residents. Despite increased fines imposed by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, this news is deeply concerning.
Mountain View Care and Rehabilitation Center in Scranton faces the most substantial fine in Lackawanna County, amounting to $322,382.00. Other facilities in our region with fines exceeding $100,000 include Aventura at Terrace View, Guardian Healthcare at Taylor, St. Mary’s Villa Nursing Home, and the Gardens at Scranton. Two of these facilities have issued statements addressing the matter. The Guardian at Taylor stated that they have resolved the issues that led to the fines, while the President of St. Mary’s Villa attributed problems to COVID-19-related staffing shortages. Both facilities emphasized their ongoing commitment to resident care and safety.
Interestingly, Zach Shamberg, the executive director of the Pennsylvania Health Care Association, holds the belief that severe fines can sometimes do more harm than good. He argues that these funds may be diverted elsewhere instead of being reinvested in nursing home facilities.
If you have loved ones residing in nursing homes, it’s essential to check on their well-being to ensure they receive the care they deserve. If you or a family member has experienced nursing home abuse or neglect, don’t hesitate to contact our team of experienced trial lawyers at Dougherty Leventhal & Price, L.L.P. We’re here to advocate for you. Remember, in times of injury, call DLP at (570) C-A-L-L-D-L-P.
Works Cited
Morgan-Besecker, Terrie.“Fines pile up for homes in county totaling $1.3 M.” The Times-Tribune, 12 February 2023, p. A 9.
