The Centers for Care, which operates four nursing homes in New York, has agreed to a $45 million settlement following allegations of neglect and mistreatment of residents. The settlement, announced by New York Attorney General Letitia James, addresses serious claims of inadequate care, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, where residents faced unsanitary conditions and neglectful treatment.
Key Takeaways
- Settlement Amount: $45 million to be paid by Centers for Care.
- Allegations: Residents were neglected, left in unsanitary conditions, and deprived of basic care.
- Future Oversight: Independent monitors will oversee improvements in care and staffing.
Background of the Case
The lawsuit against Centers for Care was initiated by Attorney General Letitia James in June 2023, citing years of resident mistreatment and financial fraud. The nursing homes involved are located in the Bronx, Queens, Westchester, and Buffalo. Allegations included:
- Residents being left in their own waste for extended periods.
- Insufficient staffing leading to neglect of basic needs such as meals and hygiene.
- Unsanitary living conditions, including vermin and neglected food trays.
Details of the Settlement
Under the terms of the settlement, the owners of Centers for Care, Kenneth Rozenberg and Daryl Hagler, will pay a total of $45 million. This includes:
- $8.75 million for restitution to Medicaid and Medicare programs.
- $35 million allocated to a Resident Care Fund aimed at improving care and staffing levels.
Additionally, the settlement mandates the appointment of independent monitors to oversee the nursing homes, ensuring compliance with care standards and financial regulations.
Impact on Residents
The settlement aims to rectify the conditions that led to the neglect of residents. Attorney General James emphasized the tragic impact of the neglect, stating that many residents suffered severe harm while the owners profited from taxpayer dollars intended for their care. Specific examples of neglect included:
- Residents left unattended for hours, leading to severe health issues.
- Reports of residents developing serious medical conditions due to lack of care.
- Families often left unaware of the true conditions their loved ones faced.
Future Reforms
As part of the settlement, Centers for Care is required to implement significant reforms, including:
- Increasing staffing levels to meet the needs of residents.
- Maintaining compliance with recommendations from independent monitors.
- Prohibiting the closure or sale of the facilities for at least three years.
The independent monitors will oversee the nursing homes for a minimum of three years, ensuring that the necessary improvements are made and maintained.
Conclusion
This settlement marks a significant step towards holding nursing home operators accountable for the care of their residents. Attorney General James has made it clear that her office will continue to investigate and enforce standards in nursing homes across New York to protect vulnerable populations from neglect and abuse.
Sources
- Centers for Care Settles $45M Over Elderly Neglect Claims, Lawyer Monthly.
- NY AG announces $45 million settlement with nursing homes over allegations of neglect, Yahoo.
- New York nursing home operator accused of neglect settles with state for $45M | National | jonesborosun.com, Jonesboro Sun.
- New York nursing home operator accused of neglect settles with state for $45M | National | chronicleonline.com, chronicleonline.com.
- AG James Secures $45 Million, Delivers Major Reforms to 4 Nursing Homes Following Significant Financial Fraud, Resident Neglect | LongIsland.com, LongIsland.com.
