By Trend News Line 2024-03-21 04:02:00.
**California Nursing Home Chain Settles $18 Million Lawsuit**
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A chain of 19 nursing homes in California has agreed to a settlement that could see them paying nearly $18 million to resolve charges of understaffing, neglecting patient care, and inflating their ratings. The settlement was announced by California Attorney General Rob Bonta, who stated that the nursing home chain, Mariner Health Care, must reform and improve its practices as part of the agreement.
**Investigation and Penalties**
The settlement requires Mariner to pay $2.25 million upfront for the costs of a multi-year investigation into their practices. Additionally, penalties could total $15.5 million for violations of an expanded injunction. The state alleged that Mariner had inflated self-reported measures to boost their ratings in the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ 5-Star system, misleading consumers and potentially harming residents.
**Legal Action and Oversight**
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This case is part of a growing trend where state attorneys general are taking legal action against nursing homes to ensure regulatory compliance. By holding Mariner accountable, officials hope to send a message to other skilled nursing facilities to prioritize patient care and transparency. Attorney General Bonta emphasized that Mariner had jeopardized residents’ health and well-being by misleading prospective residents and their families about the quality of their facilities.
**Ongoing Monitoring and Compliance**
As part of the settlement, Mariner will be subject to ongoing monitoring to ensure compliance with skilled nursing regulations. An independent monitor will oversee the company’s operations for three years or until their bankruptcy proceedings are finalized. The monitor will have access to patients’ medical records, staffing information, and financial records to ensure that Mariner is meeting all necessary standards.
**Company History and Oversight**
Mariner Health Care was once a major player in the nursing home industry, with over 250 facilities nationwide. However, a series of mergers and financial challenges led to the company’s decline, culminating in the current settlement with the state of California. Attorney General Bonta has established strict oversight rules for any potential sale of Mariner’s facilities, ensuring that new owners meet the necessary qualifications and are not affiliated with any previous wrongdoing.
**Conclusion**
The settlement between California and Mariner Health Care represents a significant step towards accountability in the nursing home industry. By holding facilities responsible for neglecting patient care and inflating their ratings, state officials are working to protect vulnerable residents and ensure that all nursing homes meet the highest standards of care. Ongoing monitoring and oversight will be crucial in ensuring that Mariner complies with the terms of the settlement and upholds the well-being of its residents..
long-tailed settlement signal SNF owners negligent care.
