The federal government accused Extendicare Health Services, the chain that operates 440 long-term nursing homes across the country and recently agreed to pay a $38 million in a Medicare and Medicaid fraud lawsuit, of “failing to provide appropriate care, follow safety protocols or maintain enough skilled nurses,” according to Crain’s Detroit Business News.
More details of the company’s misconduct were also revealed after the settlement. Crain’s reports that these include “head injuries to residents, falls, bed sores and fractures and cases of malnutrition, dehydration and infection,” and span across 33 facilities in eight states.
Included in those eight states were Minnesota and Wisconsin.
The company must pay close to $32 million to the federal government as settlement of the lawsuit, which mainly accused Extendicare of chronically overbilling Medicare and Medicaid for goods and services. Now accusations of darker infractions are coming to light.
“Protecting this nation’s vulnerable populations, including our seniors, has been and continues to be one of this department’s highest priorities,” acting Associate Attorney General Stuart Delery said, according to the Associated Press.
Whistleblowers filed complaints against the company in 2010 and in 2013. The government’s accusations of mistreatment and dangerous conditions cover a six year range from 2007 to 2013.
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The Kosieradzki • Smith Law Firm represents clients in cases involving catastrophic injury caused by nursing homes and other care facilities, including Extendicare nursing homes, that fail to provide proper care. If you believe your loved one has been harmed due neglect or abuse in a nursing home, take action and contact the Kosieradzki • Smith Law Firm online or call us toll-free at (877) 552-2873 to set up a no-cost, no-obligation consultation.
