A recent review on the effects of private equity (PE) investments in nursing homes raises important questions about the effects of ownership changes on resident outcomes. As private equity firms continue to acquire nursing homes, there are growing concerns about how these acquisitions affect both the residents and facility operations overall. The latest analysis by Health Policy highlights the benefits, along with some shortcomings, of PE firms involved with resident care.
The reality of these outcomes is that, depending on the facility or management in place, care after new acquisition varies in each nursing home facility. Not only is direct resident care at risk, but the staff is also greatly affected by these PE acquisitions. Studies show that PE-owned nursing homes tend to have lower registered nurse hours per day per patient compared to facilities under other ownerships by 29%. With a decrease in staffing levels, patient care is jeopardized, and there are also links to an increase in hospital visits and mortality rates.
Even though the healthcare side is the most important factor to consider when discussing patient care in nursing homes, there are many fiscal benefits to PE acquisitions. As many nursing homes struggle with their ability to pay caretakers and spend on the supplies and equipment needed for residents, these PE acquisitions have been proven to significantly benefit the financial situations of nursing home facilities. Having the necessary funds to serve residents and staff alike has benefited the work ethic of staff and the ability to best treat their residents. Similarly, as PE firms acquire more facilities, residents have access to the proper technology and services necessary to live in these facilities.
With varying outcomes to patient care services in nursing homes, there is room for improvement in nursing home care with more research and knowledge on the subject. Residents are on the road to better care in nursing homes with a focus on the importance of their health and safety in each and every facility.
Contact a Scranton Nursing Home Neglect and Abuse Attorney Today
If you know of someone who has been neglected or injured while a resident of a nursing home or long-term care facility, have them contact the lawyers at DLP, who have been representing nursing home abuse victims for over forty years. We at DLP Law Firm can protect you against nursing home-related issues. With stronger oversight by PE firms and more incentives for staff to serve their residents, the industry as a whole can provide better care for healthcare residents, regardless of facility ownership. Remember— Injury? Call DLP! (570) C-A-L-L-D-L-P.
Links:
https://usrtk.org/healthwire/private-equity-in-health-care-puts-patients-lives-in-danger/
