Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement rates are falling. Projections of residents to nursing homes are increasing.
New York nursing homes, such as in Albany ("Nursing home model touted," Oct. 12), Orange County, my own Otsego County and others, are considering privatization. Yet, according to university studies, a direct correlation exists between privatization and poor care. The poor care is reflected by an increase in bedsores, falls, poor nutrition and other ways.
Our social model, cutting-edge design Otsego Manor in Cooperstown is now being considered for sale. The decision made by our county representatives was swift and did not include input from residents, family or community. Our residents have written to Gov. Andrew Cuomo as well as other state and county representatives asking them to intercede.
The for-profit priority sometimes becomes making money off the backs of our frailest and most vulnerable population, to their peril. It is a shame that our government officials would consider such a thing and that their Medicaid Redesign Team would offer this alternative.
Unless we speak up, those we love will be at the mercy of a system that does not put their care first. Profits will be first while the personnel, programs and equipment cuts will all negatively affect care.
There has to be a better choice, urge our leaders to find it.
Maureen Culbert
East Springfield