County-Run Nursing Homes Going Private Seems To Be Trend
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- Earlier this year, union workers and residents worried about the future of Friendship Ridge nursing home in Beaver County.
The union concerned about jobs, and the residents and families worried about patient care.
So, the company that purchased the property for $37.5 million is saying:
"The employees will need to hang in there for a couple of minutes, but when they see the facility operating, I believe they will be very happy employees," said Aaron Lichtman, of Comprehensive Healthcare Management. "The same thing with the residents and their families and the future residents and the people of the county who rely on that facility for services."
Earlier this week, there was a similar rally in Butler County where it's proposed the Sunnyview Nursing and Rehabilitation Home would be sold. Bids are due next month.
There is an apparent trend towards privatization.
At its peak, as many as 50 Pennsylvania counties operated nursing facilities. About half that number are operating nursing facilities now.
But that's not universal.
Recently, Allegheny County spent $187,000 on a marketing campaign entitled "Kane Is More Than Able," reminding consumers that the Kane System in Allegheny County is still viable.
They emphasize short-term rehabilitation, wound care, quality care, long-term care and memory care.
Kane Regional Director Dennis Biondo says Allegheny County leaders have made the decision to operate the Kane centers.
It's a decision that indicates a viable system in an urban environment.
They hope to project a stable management system while many counties nearby are dealing with change.
RELATED LINKS:
Dozens Protest Privatization Of Beaver County-Run Nursing Home (2/14/13)
New Details Emerge In Pending Sale Of Local Nursing Home (11/20/13)
More Reports by Harold Hayes
