St. Louis – The recent inspection report from Missouri has shed light on the abrupt closure of St. Louis’ largest nursing home last month, resulting in an emergency relocation of elderly residents in the dead of night without prior notice.
Northview Village unexpectedly ceased operations on December 15 due to the owning company’s inability to fulfill payroll obligations. This facility, with a capacity of 320 beds, predominantly accommodated long-term-care Medicaid patients who were unable to find placement in other institutions. This included individuals dealing with mental health and behavioral issues, as noted by resident advocates.
The Missouri Department of Health and Human Services report, released on Wednesday, attributes the shutdown to financial difficulties. That day, a nursing home administrator revealed to an inspector that an owner had declined to pay the staff, citing a lack of funds.
A nurse reported to investigators that upon discovering they wouldn’t receive payment, the staff arrived for work only to leave immediately. Additionally, the failure of the phone lines hindered communication between the 174 residents and their families. The absence of security led to thefts within the nursing home. An elevator malfunction trapped nine individuals, including a resident in a wheelchair, for half an hour. Residents, uncertain of their fate, were visibly distressed.