Westport State Legislators Seek To Stop Nursing Home From Closing

WESTPORT, CT — Operators of the Westport Rehabilitation Complex have applied to the state seeking permission to cease operations by the end of the year, but state Sen. Will Haskell (D-26th) and state Rep. Jonathan Steinberg (D-136th) are hoping to reverse the decision.

The two Democratic legislators who represent Westport have sent a letter to the Chief Executive Officer of Traditions Senior Management, the company that operates the facility, to strongly encourage "management to reconsider the closure."

Joining Haskell and Steinberg on the letter is Long-Term Care Ombudsman Mairead Painter, and the three also are hoping the company improves "transparency between residents and the administration."

The facility has been fined by the state earlier this year for misappropriation of some patient funds, and in the past for lapses in care.

Patients and their families were notified in late-May of the potential closing, reports the Westport News.

Below is the text of the letter from Haskell, Steinberg and Painter:

Mr. RB Bridges,

We are writing to express our concern regarding recent events at the Westport Rehabilitation Complex. As we’re sure you agree, individuals who live in this facility deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. We hope you will consider the best interest of these Westport residents as you determine the future of this property.

Numerous residents have made clear that there is a little communication from the administration regarding the closing of the complex. Residents who call this facility home are exasperated by a lack of transparency, and they are frightened by the uncertainty of what lies ahead.

The Westport Rehabilitation Complex is their home, full stop. This facility has provided quality long-term care for many individuals and they should receive adequate notice and assistance with alternative options if needed. Despite the financial incentives that management may face, profit should never be put above people. The health and safety of individuals, especially our most vulnerable neighbors, should be paramount in any future decisions.

As advocates of consumer protection and supporters of high-quality long-term care, we encourage you to re-consider this closure and ensure that residents are properly considered, informed and respected. We appreciate your attention to this matter.

Sincerely,

Senator Will Haskell
26th District

Representative Jonathan Steinberg
136th District

Mairead Painter
Long Term Care Ombudsman