Sligo, PA. – Two long-standing senior care facilities in Sligo will permanently close their doors, displacing 86 residents and further highlighting the growing crisis facing elder care facilities across the state.
Clarview Nursing & Rehabilitation Center and Country Springs Personal Care Home will cease operations within the next 60 days, according to an announcement from their Board of Directors. The closure affects 61 residents at Clarview and 25 at Country Springs.
The adjacent care centers, which have served the C1000larion County area for over 45 years, cite mounting financial pressures as the primary reason for shutting down. A significant gap between Medical Assistance Program reimbursements and actual care costs has left the facilities struggling.
Financial Struggles Lead to Closure
Board Spokesperson Candace McMullen explained that the facilities lose approximately $130 per day for each resident covered by the Medical Assistance Program. With the majority of residents relying on this funding, the financial shortfall became unsustainable.
“We are extremely proud of the quality care and services that our staff have provided to so many seniors over the past 45 years, but unfortunately, years of extremely challenging industry conditions and operating losses have left the Board of Directors no choice but to close these facilities,” said McMullen.
Over the past several years, the board has infused $7.1 million into operations to offset deficits, but those resources have now been exhausted.
The closures come amid a growing crisis in Pennsylvania’s elder care industry, with many facilities facing workforce shortages, rising inflation-driven costs, and decreased occupancy rates in the post-pandemic landscape.
Valley West Health Steps in to Assist
In response to the closure, Valley West Health has stepped up to help relocate displaced residents by offering available beds and ensuring a smooth transition for those in need of continued care. Additionally, Valley West Health is extending employment opportunities to staff members affected by the closures, allowing them to continue their work in senior care.
Staff from Valley West Health visited the facility to offer further assistance and placement at it’s Clarion and Shippenville locations.
“These closures are heartbreaking, but our priority is ensuring that residents have a safe place to go and that dedicated caregivers can continue their important work,” a Valley West Health spokesperson stated. “We are committed to supporting our local senior care community during this difficult time.”
A Proven Track Record in Rescuing Struggling Facilities
Valley West Health’s willingness to step in is no surprise, given its recent success in assisting the struggling Guardian Elder Care facilities in the area. Called upon to help rescue bankrupt and failing Guardian locations, Valley West Health quickly stabilized operations, improved resident care, and revitalized the workforce—a feat widely praised by both families and industry experts.
Their proven ability to turn around struggling facilities offers hope that the residents and staff of Clarview and Country Springs will find the support they need during this transition.
Next Steps for Residents and Staff
Management is working with state agencies, including the Department of Human Services and the PA Department of Health, to coordinate resident transitions over the next two months. The Ombudsman and other community healthcare providers are also assisting in relocation efforts.
For the 82 employees losing their jobs—46 full-time, 18 part-time, and 18 casual workers—the offer from Valley West Health provides a much-needed lifeline. Many caregivers have built long-standing relationships with residents, and the opportunity to continue working in senior care is welcome news.